National Desk: In a major announcement ahead of Chhath Puja 2025, the Delhi government has declared a 1.5-day public holiday for the festival — a first in the capital’s history.
All government offices will close from 2 PM on October 27, and October 28 will be a full-day holiday. Previously, Delhi observed only a one-day public holiday for Chhath Puja.
2021 FIRs to Be Withdrawn
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also announced that all FIRs filed in 2021 against devotees who performed Chhath Puja will be withdrawn.
Those cases were registered under Section 188 (disobedience to public orders) for violating restrictions during the pandemic. The government has now decided to quash all such cases to provide relief to the devotees.
Over 1,300 Ghats Prepared Across Delhi
This year, the Delhi government has prepared around 1,300 ghats, including 17 major sites, for the grand celebration. Every locality will have at least one ghat, and devotees will also be allowed to perform Chhath rituals along the Yamuna riverbanks.
However, immersion of offerings in the river will be strictly prohibited to maintain water quality. The ghats will feature decorations, cultural performances, and grand entry gates to enhance the festive spirit.
Yamuna Cleaning and Water Monitoring
According to CM Rekha Gupta, a special cleanup drive has been launched to purify the Yamuna River. Water hyacinth has been removed, and extra water has been released from Haryana to improve flow.
The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is conducting water quality tests every two hours, ensuring clean and safe water for devotees. MPs, MLAs, and councillors have been tasked with monitoring the cleanliness and arrangements at the ghats in their respective areas.
Medical, Sanitation, and Cultural Arrangements
All ghats will be well-lit and equipped with medical teams, sanitation staff, and toilet facilities. Each municipal body has appointed nodal officers for smooth coordination through a single-window system.
Devotees observing the Chhath fast will be greeted with flower showers, and Bhojpuri and Maithili cultural programs will be organized to create a traditional festive atmosphere.
Security and Traffic Arrangements
The Delhi Police and civic administration will ensure tight security and traffic management around major ghats. Adequate arrangements for drinking water, shaded areas, and rest zones have been made to ensure a comfortable experience for devotees and visitors.
The government has also urged citizens to maintain cleanliness and cooperate with local authorities to celebrate Chhath Puja in an eco-friendly and organized manner.
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