Dibrugarh: Eleven ghats along Brahmaputra have been designated for Chhath Puja celebrations in Dibrugarh.District commissioner Bikram Kairi and SSP Abhijit Gaurav inspected the ghats on Saturday to review preparations and safety measures amid concerns over strong currents and deep waters.Officials from various departments and representatives of Chhath Puja committees accompanied them.The designated ghats are Mohana Ghat, Panchali Ghat, Malipatty Theatrepara, Kachari Ghat, Koila Ghat, Municipality Ghat, Chandmari Ghat (New), Chandmari Ghat (Old), Paltan bazaar 1, Paltan bazaar 2 — in front of the CM’s Secretariat — and Maijan, in front of HM Resort.During the inspection, Kairi assessed the river’s depth and current at different locations. He cautioned devotees against entering deep waters and urged Puja committees to follow the administration’s safety guidelines.“Devotees must exercise extreme caution while performing the rituals, particularly because the Brahmaputra has strong currents and considerable depth at several locations. The committees should ensure that all necessary safety precautions are in place. The administration will extend all possible assistance to ensure the smooth and safe celebration of the festival,” the DC said.He said that although the 11 designated ghats are within the Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation area, the administration would also provide necessary support and security at Chhath Puja venues in rural parts of the district.SSP Abhijit Gaurav said adequate security arrangements were being made for peaceful celebrations. He appealed to devotees to cooperate with the police and administration and follow instructions at the ghats.“Ensuring the safety of devotees is our priority. Police personnel will remain alert during the celebrations, and people are requested to avoid risky areas and follow the safety advisories. We appeal to everyone to cooperate with the authorities,” the SP said.Chhath Puja is dedicated to the Sun God and is observed particularly by people from Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Devotees observe a rigorous fast, offer prayers to the setting and rising sun, and seek blessings for their families’ well-being, prosperity and longevity. The rituals are traditionally performed in rivers, ponds and other water bodies.Preparations are underway at the designated ghats, with Puja committees carrying out cleaning, installing lights and making other arrangements. Similar preparations are being made at ponds and other water bodies in rural Dibrugarh.Several devotees also performed preliminary prayers along Brahmaputra on Saturday and extended an invitation to Chhathi Maiya ahead of the main rituals.
