In view of the current coronavirus pandemic situation, Chhath devotees (Vratis) are not allowed to take a dip in rivers or ponds this year. The district administration has issued essential guidelines for Chhath Puja. Rajash Kumar Singh, Deputy Commissioner Bokaro asked the residents to comply with the guidelines issued by the state government.
“If devotees (Chhath Vratis) go to worship on the banks of the pond, or any water bodies it is urged not to take a dip in it during the Arghya rituals,” the order revealed.
While performing Chhath Puja in river, pond, lake water, it is not possible to ensure adherence to national directives for compliance of social norms of two yards, hence public ponds, river, lake, dam, reservoir and any other water body Chhath Puja will not be allowed to take a dip in the water, so as to reduce the possibility of spread of Covid-19 infection, it stated.
According to the directive, erections of any kind of stalls are banned near any ponds, river, lake, dam, reservoir and any other water body. Scheduling, barricading, special lighting on Chhat Ghats is prohibited by individuals for the purpose of Chhath Puja; Fireworks are not allowed in public places; No music or any other entertainment or cultural event will have to be organized, it stated.
“People above 60 years, children below 10 years and people suffering from any serious diseases or fever are advised not to visit Chhath Ghats. In addition, each person has been advised to use face masks and compulsorily comply with two yards distance,” the order reveals.
DC instructed all the Zonal Officers and Block Development Officers, Sub-divisional officers Chas and Bermo to ensure compliance with the order issued by the Government of Jharkhand.