CM directs early readiness of Chhath ghats

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta directed officials on Monday to begin arrangements at Chhath ghats early, rather than waiting for the festival to begin.

The CM visited Soor Ghat in north Delhi, where she found several faults on the ground and told officials to prioritise cleaning, repairs, lighting, and security.

“Arrangements must be put in order well before Chhath rather than waiting until the festival day, so that devotees do not face any inconvenience. Give highest priority to cleaning, repairs, painting, lighting, security and all facilities for devotees,” the CM said.

The Government will not accept any negligence in preparations, and officials should provide every devotee with a clean, safe, and convenient environment, she said. Kapil Mishra and senior officials from the concerned departments were present during the inspection.

During the visit, the chief minister directed officials to immediately repair dilapidated gates, rusted structures, and other damaged sections, and to address sanitation issues. Reviewing the lighting arrangements, the chief minister instructed authorities to ensure adequate illumination on both sides of the ghat and check and repair all lights.

Upon finding shortcomings in the water arrangements, the chief minister sought explanations from officials and directed them to inspect the water connections and ensure adequate bathing facilities for devotees.

“Planning alone is not enough; all facilities must be functional and fit for use. Sections that had remained in poor condition for years should be properly repaired instead of being given temporary fixes,” she said.

Expressing concern over the poor condition of toilets and other basic amenities, she ordered immediate cleaning, repairs and proper maintenance. She made it clear that planning alone was not enough; all facilities must be functional and fit for use. She instructed officials to give the highest priority to cleaning, repairs, painting, lighting, security and all facilities for devotees. She made it clear that she would not accept any negligence in the preparations. Devotees celebrate Chhath every year between November 13 and November 16, gathering along the Yamuna River banks to offer prayers.

Later, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta attended the Prakatotsav celebrations of Maharishi Valmiki Ji at the National Ancient Valmiki Temple and Ashram on Mandir Marg in Delhi on Monday. She offered oblations during the havan, paid obeisance to Maharishi Valmiki Ji and sought his blessings. The Chief Minister prayed for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of the people of Delhi.