NEW DELHI: The Bihar government on Monday stepped up safety preparations for Chhath Puja, directing district administrations to impose a ban on firecrackers near ghats and prohibit private boat operations during the four-day festival from November 13 to 16.The disaster management department asked district magistrates to identify vulnerable riverbanks, barricade unsafe ghats and deploy adequate security personnel and volunteers to manage crowds.“Authorities must ensure the availability of trained divers, swimmers, motorboats and life-saving equipment at river ghats to deal with emergencies. Medical teams, ambulances and Quick Medical Response Teams (QMRTs) have also been asked to remain on standby,” the statement read.
The department has stressed the need for adequate lighting at ghats and approach roads, round-the-clock operation of district control rooms and regular public announcements through loudspeakers. Electrical installations must be inspected before the festival to prevent electrocution.District administrations have also been directed to draw up disaster management and communication plans to prevent panic and stampedes. Coordination meetings with Chhath committees and continuous monitoring of arrangements have been made part of the safety measures.Chhath Puja will begin on November 13 with the ‘Nahai Khai’ ritual and conclude on November 16.