Patna: Patna Divisional Commissioner, Kumar Ravi, underscored the imperative need for a seamless and incident-free organization of Chhath festival to be celebrated from November 17-20. Speaking at a meeting convened to address the preparations for the four- day festival on Sunday, Ravi emphasized that excellent crowd management, a robust security system, smooth traffic control, and strong law and order maintenance were of paramount importance to the government.
The divisional commissioner urged civic bodies and other agencies to expedite the provision of basic facilities at the ghats, ensuring strict compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Notably, JP Ganga Path experiences heightened activity, requiring special preparation to maintain a smooth and obstruction-free road leading to Chhath Ghats below JP Ganga Path.
In addition to the permanent CCTV cameras installed by Patna Smart City Limited, temporary CCTV cameras will be placed along the riverfront and at the ghats by Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC). Large ghats will be monitored using drones. Continuous coordination with the Chhath Puja Committee will be upheld, with the railway station expected to witness a substantial crowd during Chhath Puja. All sub-divisional officers and sub-divisional police officers have been instructed to prepare for this and ensure a hassle-free experience for passengers.
To enhance safety, Commissioner Ravi directed the proper numbering of watchtowers and control structures on the ghats and the dissemination of key information through flex, banners, and signage. Deputed magistrates and police officials will receive regular briefings at the ghats, routes, and other key locations. NDRF and SDRF teams will be deployed, with a pre-planned evacuation strategy in place. A mock drill will be conducted in preparation for any emergencies.
Furthermore, Commissioner Ravi stressed the importance of advanced and well-developed communication plans for all officials. The goal is to provide every administrative facility to the devotees and Chhath Vratis, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants. The Evening Arghya day was noted as particularly sensitive due to the large number of people exiting the ghats in a short span, warranting special attention to crowd management.
The meeting featured a comprehensive review of preparations, including cleaning the ghats/ponds, strengthening access roads, cleaning and parking arrangements, the identification and fencing of dangerous ghats with bamboo for safety, electricity and lighting arrangements, changing rooms for women, drinking water and toilet facilities, disaster management, medical provisions, crowd management, public address systems, law and order maintenance, arrangements on JP Ganga Path, and more.
The Commissioner applauded all officials for their efficient organization of past events, including Durga Puja, Dussehra, and the Ravana Dahan program. He expressed hope that the same level of excellence would be maintained for the upcoming Chhath festival, emphasizing the need for collective teamwork among all departments.
