Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday announced that the long-standing ban on organising Chhath Puja on the Yamuna river has been lifted, marking a major change in the city’s festive preparations
this year.
Speaking about the arrangements, CM Gupta said the government is building 17 model Chhath ghats along the Yamuna and will provide full facilities, including tents, lighting, sanitation, and toilets, at over 1,000 venues across the city.
“For years, the government had banned Chhath Puja on the Yamuna river. The government was not organising the puja. This time, after our government came to power, we have lifted that ban and we are providing all the arrangements,” Gupta said.
She added that this year’s scale will far surpass previous years. “Last year, Chhath events were held at only 929 locations. But as of today, we have received over 1,000 applications from committees to celebrate Chhath Puja,” she said.
The CM also announced that at least one model ghat will be constructed in every district and sub-district of Delhi, while grand welcome gates will greet devotees across the capital. “They will be showered with flowers and welcomed. Cultural programs in Bhojpuri and Maithili languages will also be organised to enhance the festive spirit,” Gupta said.
The Chhath Puja, dedicated to the Sun God, is one of the most important festivals for devotees from Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand, who form a large part of Delhi’s population.
