Silchar: Silchar is gearing up for the four-day Durga Puja celebrations with heightened security, traffic restrictions and intensified civic preparations.More than 1,000 community pujas are organised annually across three Barak Valley districts of Cachar, Sribhumi and Hailakandi. Artisans are giving finishing touches to idols, while puja committees are racing against time to complete pandals and lighting arrangements.The Silchar Municipal Corporation has deployed quick-response teams at vulnerable locations, including Central Road, the Goldighi Mall stretch and Park Road, to tackle waterlogging in case of heavy rain during the festivities.The Cachar district administration has directed puja committees to adopt environment-friendly practices, including the use of lead-free paints, natural dyes and biodegradable decorative materials.Security arrangements have been stepped up across the town and adjoining areas in anticipation of an influx of revellers from different parts of the Barak Valley.More than 1,500 police and Home Guard personnel are likely to be deployed at major puja venues and crowded locations.CCTV surveillance and centralised monitoring are also being planned to improve security and crowd management. Special attention will be given to prominent puja destinations, including Udharbond, Hospital Road, Madhyashahar, Bilpar, Sonai Road and Tarapur.Traffic restrictions are also planned to prevent congestion during peak pandal-hopping hours. Special women police teams will patrol crowded commercial areas to ensure the safety of women and children.Several puja committees have chosen themes centred on environmental conservation, women’s empowerment, traditional art and cultural heritage.Among the major attractions are the elaborate pandals on Udharbond Hospital Road and Kalibari Road, known for their architectural designs and innovative decorations.Devleena Club and Dakshin Bilpar Club are also expected to draw large crowds with their thematic presentations and lighting arrangements.The Ramakrishna Mission’s Durga Puja, particularly the traditional Kumari Puja on Maha Ashtami, is expected to attract devotees from across the valley.Silchar’s commercial centres, including Central Road, Gopalganj, Fatak Bazar and Janiganj, have also begun witnessing a festive rush, with shoppers visiting garment shops, footwear outlets and other establishments.Cachar district commissioner Rahul Kumar Gupta urged puja organisers, civic agencies and residents to cooperate to ensure peaceful celebrations.
