A preparatory meeting for the smooth and peaceful celebration of Durga Puja and Kali Puja in Sonitpur district was held at the office of the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Tezpur, under the chairmanship of DC Shri Ananda Kumar Das.
The DC stressed the importance of coordination among all stakeholders to ensure safety and discipline during the festivities. In a new initiative, he announced that the best Puja Committees will be awarded 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes for cleanliness, discipline, and eco-friendly practices. He also urged strict discipline during idol immersions to prevent accidents.
Key Guidelines and Announcements
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Idols must be crafted from natural clay. Thermocol, chemical dyes, and other non-biodegradable materials are prohibited. Non-biodegradable items must be removed before immersion. Committees are encouraged to use eco-friendly materials such as banana leaves or clay plates at pandals.
- Sound Restrictions: Loudspeakers, drums, and music systems cannot be used before 8 AM and after 10 PM.
- Safety Arrangements: Puja Mandaps should be spacious, hazard-free, and not block roads. Separate entry and exit routes must be arranged for male and female devotees. Each mandap should have a help desk, fire safety equipment, night guards, and dedicated volunteers. Installation of CCTVs and display of emergency contact numbers is mandatory.
- Immersion Protocols: Only 10 committee members are allowed in immersion processions, with no children permitted. Lists of volunteers must be submitted in advance. Trimming of roadside branches, proper routing, and strong police patrolling will be in place during immersion.
Permissions and NOCs
- Puja Committees must apply for NOCs through https://polcitizen.assam.gov.in/ by September 18, 2025, for approval from the police department.
- By September 23, 2025, approvals must also be obtained from the DC’s office along with fire clearance, electricity permission, and volunteer details.
- Dustbins are mandatory at all pandals.
Security and Police Measures
- The ADC and officials emphasized that all OCs should conduct local meetings with Puja Committees and submit minutes to the DC’s office by September 18. Police patrolling will be intensified, with volunteers assisting in crowd management.
Attendees
The meeting was attended by Co-District Commissioners of Dhekiajuli, Naduar, and Rangapara, Additional SP Shri Satkhokai Changsan, CDSPs, Circle Officers, municipal board officials, local OCs, and various Puja Committee representatives.
Concluding the meeting, the DC extended greetings to citizens and sought collective cooperation to make the festivities joyous, safe, and eco-friendly.
