Kolkata: The govt has decided to keep Rabindra Sarobar out of bounds for Chhath Puja, to be celebrated on Nov 15-16. The announcement by state urban development and municipal affairs minister Agnimitra Paul on Tuesday has put to rest anxiety among environmentalists and birders caused by her earlier comment that the govt was considering allowing Chhath rituals at the Lake.“We initially thought of hosting Chhath Puja at Rabindra Sarobar. But now, we have decided against it. I do not think the rituals of the puja cause much pollution. But crackers are burst, which causes discomfort to the fauna, particularly the birds in and around the water body,” said Paul.She added that Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), in coordination with Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA), has made arrangements at 50 ghats in south Kolkata for Chhath rituals. “We have increased the number of ghats from 39 to 50 in comparison to last year and we are also making arrangements for some artificial water bodies for Chhath. We feel that the arrangements will be more than adequate with Rabindra Sarobar being out of bounds,” she added.Though Paul did not mention anything specific about Subhas Sarovar, a senior KMDA official said the north Kolkata water body will also be out of bounds for Chhath rituals.Last Friday, Paul had indicated that Chhath Puja would be held at the two water bodies only if NGT gave its nod. According to a Supreme Court order dated Nov 19, 2020, Chhath or any social event cannot take place in Rabindra Sarobar, confirming the order of NGT dated Nov 15, 2017.Paul reiterated several steps were being taken on behalf of the state for preservation of biodiversity at Rabindra Sarobar and attracting migratory birds to the water body. The arrangements include protection of the islands and planting of fruit trees. The release of grass carp for feeding on the algae to prevent fish deaths, particularly in winter, and setting up a butterfly garden on the Sarobar premises were also announced by her.“We welcome the move. We are thankful as good intent prevailed eventually. Any contravention of the NGT order would have threatened the biodiversity we are so proud of,” said Sumita Banerjee, a lake conservation campaigner.“Rabindra Sarobar has witnessed remarkable ecological recovery since Chhath was stopped. Morning walkers and environmentalists have noted the transformation in air quality and biodiversity. The move is much appreciated,” said S M Ghosh, convener of Save Rabindra Sarobar Forum.Elaborating on alternative arrangements for Chhath, she said instructions have been issued for cleaning of the earmarked ponds and constructing pathways to them. “There will be adequate lighting, barricading of the water bodies to mark the place for observing Chhath rituals, stairs leading down into the water wherever feasible and rescue boats or divers, particularly in large water bodies,” said Paul.The minister also stressed barricading the place within Hooghly and other rivers in the state for the safety of devotees, cleaning of the stairs with lime or bleaching powder, adequate police arrangements along with watchtowers, loudhailers and a spare vehicle or ambulance for emergency purposes.“The CM will be visiting ghats in and around the Hooghly in the late afternoon of Nov 15,” said Paul.
