Patna: Patna Divisional Commissioner, Kumar Ravi, said on Saturday that the 78th Independence Day celebrations will be held with grandeur this year. Addressing officials in a meeting at the Collectorate assembly hall, Commissioner Ravi emphasized the importance of a dignified celebration, particularly the main state function at Gandhi Maidan, which holds paramount importance for both security and protocol.
He highlighted that the Independence Day celebration is a fixed-time, fixed-venue event requiring meticulous planning and coordination. “This is a significant team effort,” he said, urging officials to be well-versed in their roles and responsibilities. With just a month left, he called for rapid administrative preparations, adherence to prescribed standards, and readiness for weather changes.
The Commissioner outlined key responsibilities for various officials and departments to ensure the successful execution of the event. The Executive Engineer of the Building Department was tasked with securing barricades after approval from the District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police. Gandhi Maidan will be leveled, and entrances to its boundary wall repaired as needed. Seating in Gandhi Maidan will be organized under the supervision of the Najarat Deputy Collector and Additional District Magistrate, ensuring clear instructions and easy access for all attendees.
The Municipal Commissioner and Executive Engineer of the Electricity Works Division will manage the power supply, ensuring all high mast lights around Gandhi Maidan are functional.
Senior Superintendent of Police, Patna, will coordinate with military, paramilitary, and police officers for joint parade rehearsals from August 1 to 13. Facilities for drinking water, medical teams, and public toilets will be ensured.
The Municipal Commissioner will oversee the cleaning of Gandhi Maidan and its surroundings, ensuring proper water drainage. The Executive Engineer of the Public Health Administration Department will install water tankers and ATMs, ensuring all water hydrants and taps are operational. Temporary medical centers will be set up in Gandhi Maidan with doctors, health personnel, and ambulances on standby for emergencies.
A firefighting squad will be stationed at the parade ground and PCR for emergencies. Two announcers will be assigned by the District Public Relations Officer for the event. The Superintendent of Police, Traffic, will devise a traffic plan considering the ongoing Patna Metro Rail Corporation works. Information on alternative routes will be published, and vehicle parking will be arranged at Gandhi Maidan. The Deputy Development Commissioner and District Public Relations Officer will supervise the tableau arrangements.
The District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police will issue joint orders to maintain law and order, with the Additional District Magistrate and City Magistrate assisting.
Commissioner Ravi also stressed the importance of inviting guests and establishing a traffic control room for effective management, calling upon residents to participate enthusiastically in the Independence Day celebrations. The meeting was attended by District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police Rajeev Mishra, Municipal Commissioner Animesh Kumar Parashar, and other officials, who assured timely compliance with all instructions for a successful event.
