Patna Prepares for Chhath Puja, with Safety Measures in Place Across 100 Ganga Ghats

Patna: The Patna district administration has nearly completed preparations for the upcoming Chhath Puja, focusing on 100 Ganga ghats stretching from Nasriganj to Didarganj. Officials report that more than 75% of the work is finished, though concerns remain over several ghats, including LCT, Rajapur, and Pehelwan, where erosion continues to pose a challenge. Additionally, six ghats have been left without water, and authorities have declared several sites, such as TN Banerjee Ghat, Mishri Ghat, Judges Ghat, and Adalat Ghat, unusable.

District Magistrate Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh stated that preparations are underway at approximately 550 ghats along the Ganges and other rivers. Additionally, more than 150 ponds and parks are being readied for the festival. In Patna city alone, Chhath Puja will be observed at around 100 ghats, 45 parks, and 63 ponds.

Among the notable improvements is the connection between Collectorate Ghat and Bans Ghat, providing devotees with easier access. Pilgrims will now be able to reach Collectorate Ghat by walking 100 meters from the Ganga riverbank, a convenience that has been restored for the first time in many years. Similarly, Mahendru Ghat has been reconnected to Bans Ghat.

To ensure the safety of devotees, the administration is deploying over 5,000 security personnel, supported by 1,000 magistrates. Emergency response teams include eight units of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), 14 teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), 333 divers, 306 boatmen, and 168 Civil Defence volunteers. River patrols will be in operation, and strict action will be taken against the illegal operation of boats.

Medical services are also being set up at several Chhath ghats, with two-bed temporary hospitals established at key locations, including Patipul Ghat, Ghat No. 93, Collectorate Ghat, Law College Ghat, and Gaighat. A control room has been set up near Patipul. Ambulances, equipped with medical teams, will be stationed at every three or four ghats.

The medical teams will include doctors, paramedics, and nurses, with ambulances on standby to transport anyone in need of urgent care. Hospitals have been put on alert, with beds reserved specifically for Chhath-related emergencies.