Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accompanied by Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, conducted a thorough inspection of the Chhath Puja preparations at Ganga Ghat in Patna. As one of the most significant festivals in Bihar, Chhath Puja is expected to attract thousands of devotees to the Ganga Ghats, where they gather to pay homage to the Sun God. The state administration, under the leadership of CM Nitish Kumar, has been working to ensure safety, order, and convenience for devotees attending the rituals.

Ensuring Smooth and Safe Celebrations for Devotees

During the inspection, CM Nitish Kumar emphasized the importance of providing a safe and comfortable experience for the devotees who will congregate at Ganga Ghat for the rituals. Chhath Puja, a four-day festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, holds deep cultural significance, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Each year, millions of devotees, many of whom are fasting, gather by rivers to make offerings as part of the rituals. The Chief Minister’s inspection is a part of the state’s commitment to maintaining a safe and organized environment for these gatherings.

In recent years, the number of devotees participating in Chhath Puja at Patna’s Ganga Ghat has increased, making it essential for the government to take additional measures to accommodate the crowds. Special attention is being given to the safety of the attendees, and the Bihar government has deployed extra personnel and equipment to manage the situation effectively.

Key Preparations at Ganga Ghat

Patna’s Ganga Ghat is a central point for Chhath Puja celebrations in Bihar, with thousands of devotees arriving from various parts of the state. The state government has focused on several areas of preparedness, including:

• Safety Barricades and Fencing: To prevent any accidental falls into the river, temporary barricades have been installed along the banks. These barriers will guide the flow of people and ensure that devotees can perform rituals safely near the water.
• Medical Assistance: The administration has set up multiple medical tents at strategic locations along the ghat, staffed with doctors and medical personnel to provide immediate aid if needed. This is particularly crucial given the fasting conditions under which many devotees undertake the rituals.
• Cleanliness and Sanitation: As part of a concerted effort to keep the Ganga Ghats clean, sanitation teams have been working to maintain hygiene in and around the area. Additional waste bins and mobile toilets have been installed to manage the large crowd effectively.
• Lighting and Power Backup: To ensure that the area remains well-lit during evening rituals, the government has installed high-powered lights along the ghat. Backup generators have also been set up to avoid any power outages.

Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, who accompanied the Chief Minister on the inspection tour, commented on the government’s commitment to ensuring smooth celebrations, saying, “The festival is an important occasion for Biharis, and we want to ensure everyone can celebrate it without concerns for safety or discomfort. We are committed to making Chhath Puja a hassle-free experience for all.”

Enhanced Security Measures for Crowd Control

With the increased turnout anticipated for this year’s Chhath Puja, the government has heightened security at Ganga Ghat. Police personnel, disaster management teams, and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) units have been deployed in large numbers to manage the crowds and respond swiftly to any emergencies. Drone surveillance will also be implemented to monitor the area from above, helping officials keep track of the movement and density of the crowd.

The government has also issued guidelines to maintain order during the festivities. These guidelines include requests for devotees to follow safety protocols and adhere to the instructions provided by security personnel. Local volunteers are being trained to assist in guiding devotees and ensuring smooth movement along the ghat.

Public Awareness and Communication Efforts

Recognizing the need to keep the public informed, the Bihar government has launched an awareness campaign across the state. Messages are being circulated through various media channels to inform people about safety protocols, medical assistance points, and emergency contacts available at Ganga Ghat. The government has encouraged devotees to reach the ghats early and avoid overcrowding, particularly during the peak hours of the rituals.

CM Nitish Kumar, addressing the public through the media, emphasized the importance of cooperation during the festival, saying, “Chhath Puja is a sacred and beloved celebration for us all. We urge everyone to follow the guidelines and ensure their own safety and that of others. We are here to support and facilitate the devotees at every step.”

Challenges in Handling Large Gatherings

The Bihar government has acknowledged the challenges associated with handling the large gatherings expected at Ganga Ghat. Among these challenges are managing traffic, ensuring that emergency response teams have quick access, and preventing overcrowding along the riverbank. Officials are coordinating closely with local authorities to address these issues, ensuring the festival is celebrated without any disruptions.

For many attendees, the steps taken by the government have inspired confidence. A devotee preparing to visit Ganga Ghat expressed gratitude for the arrangements, saying, “The efforts by the government show their dedication to the safety and comfort of the people. With these arrangements, I feel assured that my family and I can focus on our prayers without worrying about our surroundings.”

Looking Ahead: Bihar’s Commitment to Chhath Puja Traditions

As the government’s preparations for Chhath Puja intensify, CM Nitish Kumar’s personal involvement reflects Bihar’s dedication to preserving and facilitating the cultural traditions that define the state. This year’s measures represent a broader commitment to enhancing the safety and experience of devotees, ensuring that the essence of Chhath Puja is respected and celebrated in a peaceful environment.

With Chhath Puja set to begin soon, the Bihar administration’s efforts at Ganga Ghat in Patna serve as a testament to the state’s devotion to one of its most cherished festivals. By prioritizing safety, organization, and cleanliness, the government has set the stage for a meaningful celebration, allowing devotees to focus on their prayers and rituals with confidence.