Ranchi: To ensure that the grand Chhath festival is conducted in a safe and peaceful manner, Ranchi District Magistrate-cum-Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri inspected various Chhath ghats across the city on Wednesday. During the visit, he reviewed the preparations at Hatma, Kanke Dam, Madhukam, Hataniya, Bada Talab, Chadri, Argora, Dhurwa, Button Talab, Banas Talab, and Power House Talab.
During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner interacted with members of the Puja committees to inquire about the arrangements made for the convenience and safety of the devotees. He emphasized that the safety of devotees at the Chhath ghats is the top priority. Taking into account the water level and depth, areas where the water is deeper than three feet must be cordoned off with barricades. Hazardous spots should be identified and marked with warning signs. Furthermore, devotees should be encouraged to perform ‘arghya’ (offerings) only within the designated safe zones.
The Deputy Commissioner directed that NDRF and SDRF teams be deployed at highly sensitive ghats. It must also be ensured that divers, rescue teams, and emergency resources are available at these ghats.
He issued instructions to level the paths leading to the ghats, ensure adequate lighting and electricity, and pay special attention to cleanliness and crowd control. Furthermore, he emphasized the deployment of administrative and police personnel, as well as the need for better coordination among various departments. During the inspection, Traffic SP Rakesh Singh, SDO Kumar Rajat, officials from various departments, public representatives, and members of the puja committees were present.
