Patna:With the four-day Chhath Puja festival set to begin shortly, the Patna district administration has released a list of unsafe ghats along the Ganga, cautioning devotees to perform rituals only at authorised locations. Officials have declared six ghats “dangerous” and five others “unsuitable” for performing the sacred ritual of offering Arghya due to hazardous conditions such as deep water, strong currents, and slippery or swampy banks.
According to the administration, venturing into these ghats could be life-threatening. Devotees have been urged not to use these spots for drawing water or performing rituals and instead visit only the approved ghats designated as safe.
The six ghats declared dangerous are: Kantahi Ghat, Rajapur Bridge Ghat, Pehlwan Ghat, Bamboo Ghat, Buddha Ghat, and New Panchmukhi Square Ghat.
The five ghats marked unsuitable due to low water levels and excessive mud are: TN Banerjee Ghat, Mishri Ghat, Judges Ghat, Adalat Ghat, and Gulabi Ghat.
A final decision regarding the LCT Ghat remains pending. Officials said the river’s erosion and depth are under review, and a temporary pond is being constructed to allow safe worship if necessary. The verdict on its usability is expected within the next two days.
Meanwhile, the connecting road between the city’s two main Chhath venues — Collectorate Ghat and Mahendru Ghat — remains waterlogged. The administration has begun preparing an alternative route between them. Devotees have been advised to park their vehicles at Gandhi Maidan and proceed on foot to the ghats.
Patna Divisional Commissioner Animesh Parashar, District Magistrate Dr Thiyagarajan SM, and Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena are conducting on-site inspections to ensure the safety and smooth organisation of the festival. Sub-divisional officers and police officials have been instructed to check all approach roads and address any shortcomings.
Security, lighting, and parking have been prioritised across all major ghats. The State Disaster Management Authority has also issued safety guidelines to prevent accidents and maintain public order.
The district administration has appealed to all devotees to adhere strictly to safety protocols and avoid risky behaviour. For assistance, residents can contact the District Control Room at 0612-2219810, 2219234, or dial 112. The State Emergency Operations Centre can be reached via the toll-free number 1070, mobile number 7070290170, or landlines 0612-2294204 and 0612-2294205.
Key safety instructions for devotees:
- Do not cross barricades or enter deep-water zones.
- Avoid fireworks near ghats or places of worship.
- Maintain cleanliness and do not litter near the riverbanks.
- Use designated routes and parking areas.
- Elderly people, children, and persons with disabilities should carry their address and contact details.
- Refrain from spreading or believing rumours.
