With the great festival of Chhath fast approaching, the Municipal Corporation has accelerated preparations at the city's ghats, but is facing a significant challenge this year due to the unusually high water level of the Ganges River.
Instructions have been issued to all municipal circles to focus on the cleaning of ghats, ensuring adequate lighting, repairing pathways, and implementing security arrangements. While officials have begun inspections, many traditional Chhath ghats remain submerged, complicating the preparatory work.
Challenges And Contingency Plans
According to Municipal Corporation officials, the high water level has inundated many low-lying ghats, including Digha, Kurji, Bansghat, and Collectorate Ghat. This has made it difficult for local residents, with some families reporting that their traditional spots for making offerings (arghya) are now accessible only by boat.
In response, the corporation is actively considering and preparing alternative ghats. Safe sites are being identified through joint inspections with the District Administration and the Disaster Management Department.
However, the high water level has one advantage: devotees will not have to walk a long distance across sandbanks to reach the river.
Comprehensive Arrangements Underway
Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena stated that a layer of sand will be spread on the ghats to prevent slipping and ensure devotee safety. Other measures include:
- Activation of special drainage teams to manage rain or river water.
- Deployment of sanitation workers on extra duties.
- Construction of temporary toilets around the ghats.
- Coordination with the electricity department to ensure proper lighting.
On the instructions of Divisional Commissioner Animesh Kumar Parashar, executive officers and engineers are assessing a total of 91 Ganges ghats and 62 ponds where arrangements for the festival are being made. The Divisional Commissioner has emphasised the timely completion of safety measures, including the installation of security barricades, warning signs and railings at all locations.
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Despite the challenges, the corporation administration has assured that all major ghats will be ready on schedule, ensuring that those observing the Chhath fast can do so safely and without inconvenience.