Dist admin to use drones during fest

PATNA: Patna divisional commissioner Kumar Ravi on Saturday asked the DIGs, DMs and SSPs of all the six districts under the division to maintain close surveillance at all crowded places through CCTV cameras and drones during the festivals of Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath.

At a meeting on law and order ahead of the festivals, Ravi also asked the officials concerned to take steps to prevent rumourmongering on social media platforms by anti-social elements. durga Puja will begin with “kalashsthapna” on October 15, while Saptami, Ashtami and Navami will fall on October 21, 22 and 23, respectively. Dussehrta will be celebrated on October 24 and it will be followed by Diwali on November 12 and four-day Chhath from November 17 to 20.

The divisional commissioner said quick response and medical teams should be in a state of readiness at all places. For Durga puja, the organisers would have to ensure that heights of pandal and idols do not exceed 40 and 20 feet, respectively.

The local administration and urban bodies have been asked to inspect pandals and ensure that they are erected according to rules.

Ravi asked the officials of Patna, Nalanda, Bhojpur, Buxar, Rohtas and Kaimur to depute adequate forces and magistrates at all the crowed places, hold meetings with stakeholders, take preventive action against those troublemakers and put up banners and flex boards warning people that they are under constant watch of the administration.

Ravi said as Durga Puja is celebrated in a grand way at various pandals followed by Ravan Vadh at the sprawling Gandhi maidan, the administration needs to make all necessary arrangements for the safety and security of the people.

Fire department begins inspections of Durga Puja pandals, Ramlila grounds

The fire department in Ghaziabad is inspecting Durga Puja pandals and Ramlila grounds to ensure fire safety during the festive season. Last year, a fire at a Durga Puja pandal resulted in several deaths and injuries. To prevent such incidents, puja management committees have been directed to follow fire safety guidelines. The department is also raising awareness about safety measures, including the use of fire extinguishers, proper distance between kitchens and pandals, and restrictions on fireworks and smoking. So far this year, there have been 774 fire-related incidents in Ghaziabad, resulting in four deaths.

Puja committees asked to install CCTVs in pandals

The Kamrup (Metro) district administration in Guwahati has directed puja committees to prioritize guidelines issued by the Pollution Control Board, Assam during the Durga puja festival. The committees have been instructed to use eco-friendly materials, avoid single-use plastic, and destroy idol parts after immersion. Failure to adhere to the guidelines will result in fines. Other directives include installing CCTV cameras, obtaining no-objection certificates, and ensuring pandals do not cause traffic congestion. The police commissioner also warned against forced donations, the use of intoxicants during idol immersion, and loud music after 10 pm.

Cricket-themed pandals, immersive experiences and more: Mumbai gears up for Durga Puja 2023

With Durga Puja celebrations in full swing in Mumbai, puja pandals have come up with unique themes that include the upcoming Cricket World Cup. The pandals are not only focusing on vibrant decorations and cultural events but also supporting social causes such as organ donation awareness, old-age homes, girl-child education, and philanthropic activities. The celebrations are emphasizing the importance of compassion, inclusivity, and empathy in the city. The pandals are also showcasing various art forms and engaging in charitable initiatives to give back to society.