Delhi Chhath Puja 2023: Over 1,000 Ghats Set Up, Traffic Advisory Issued

In preparation for Chhath Puja 2023, the Delhi government is leaving no stone unturned. Over 1,000 Chhath ghats will be erected across the city to ensure devotees have convenient access to perform rituals without the need for extensive travel.

As Chhath Puja, a significant festival celebrated six days after Diwali, approaches, the Delhi government has taken proactive steps to facilitate a joyous and hassle-free experience for devotees residing in the national capital. Recognizing the cultural importance of Chhath Puja, especially for those from the 'Purvanchal' region, the government has mobilized efforts to set up more than 1,000 Chhath ghats throughout the city.

Delhi Revenue Minister Atishi expressed confidence in the preparations, stating, "There will be no shortcomings in the preparations for Chhath. In this direction, all MLAs and departments are working on the ground."

Chhath Puja holds immense significance for the community, socially, economically, and culturally contributing to the development of Delhi, particularly for the residents with roots in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Devotees observe the festival by offering 'arghya' to the Sun God, seeking blessings from Chhathi Maiya.

Traditionally, many devotees would converge on the banks of the Yamuna River to perform the rituals. However, concerns related to pollution and frothing in the river have led families to seek alternative locations such as parks and gardens. Temporary 'ghats' are set up in these public places, allowing devotees to carry out their religious practices in a more controlled environment.

To ensure smooth traffic flow during the festival, the Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory. Anticipating congestion on the last day of the festivities, the advisory outlined potential disruptions on roads adjacent to major ponds.

Appropriate diversions will be implemented, and commuters are advised to avoid affected areas, including the stretch of Outer Ring Road, Old Wazirabad Bridge to ITO, Vikas Marg, Pushta Road (Khajoori/Shastri Park), Kalindi Kunj Bridge, GTK Road, Rohtak Road, Pankha Road, Najafgarh Road, MB Road, Maa Anandmai Marg, etc.

The advisory emphasized that public transport, such as the Delhi Metro, should be utilized to decongest roads. It also urged people to use designated parking lots and refrain from roadside parking, which can hinder normal traffic flow.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced bank closures in a few states on November 20, 2023, due to Surya Pashti Dala Chhath (Morning ardhya)/Chhath Puja. While banks in Bihar and Jharkhand, both public and private, will be closed, digital services like UPI, Mobile Banking, and Internet Banking will remain active. The RBI guidelines indicate a non-functional period of up to four days across India, including Sunday and the second Saturday.

As Chhath Puja approaches, the Delhi government's meticulous preparations aim to ensure a seamless and joyous celebration for all devotees. The focus on convenience, cultural significance, and traffic management reflects the commitment to making this festival a memorable experience for residents of the national capital.