A crucial preparatory meeting for the peaceful celebration of Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, and Kali Puja conducted on September 26, 2024, under the chairmanship of District Commissioner Shri Ankur Bharali, ACS. Held at the Conference Hall-II of the District Commissioner’s Office, the gathering aimed to address various issues related to the upcoming festivities and ensure seamless coordination among stakeholders for a smooth and peaceful celebration.
The meeting discussed crucial aspects of the celebration, including the application process for Puja Committees, which requires obtaining No Objection Certificates from concerned departments. Discussions covered Puja Pandal fitness, electrical connection safety, and adherence to Pollution Control Board guidelines for environmentally friendly celebrations. District Commissioner Bharali stressed the importance of “green” celebrations, advocating for the use of biodegradable products in idol making. He also announced that time slots would be allocated to each Puja committee for idol immersion on Visarjan day to ensure a smooth and accident-free process.
Superintendent of Police Shri Barun Purkayastha, IPS, outlined critical security measures, mandating the installation of CCTVs at Puja Pandal sites. He urged the display of local emergency numbers for fire services, ambulances, and police outposts at pandal locations. Additional safety measures discussed included ensuring night guarding at pandals, engaging volunteers, and setting up helpdesks. Additional District Commissioner (Magistracy) Twahir Alam set a deadline of October 5, 2024, for Puja Committees to complete all necessary permission formalities. Additional District Commissioner (Nazarat) Smti. Kabita Kakati Konwar emphasized the importance of following the detailed guidelines and checklists to be provided by the District Administration to prevent untoward incidents.
The meeting saw participation from a wide array of officials and stakeholders. Attendees included Additional District Commissioners Dyotiva Bora and Raj Boruah, both ACS officers, along with the Joint Director of Health Services Sonitpur, Circle Officers of Sonitpur, Executive Officers of Municipal Boards of Sonitpur, local OCs, and officials from APDCL, PWD Department, SDRF, Fire Services, and River Police. Also present were the District Project Officer DDMA, DIPRO, District Transport Officer, and Presidents and Secretaries of various Puja Committees from Sonitpur.
