Massive Festive Preparations Underway in Assam for Durga Puja 2024
Assam is brimming with excitement as the state prepares for Durga Puja 2024, one of the most revered and widely celebrated festivals in the region. According to official reports, a staggering 4804 Durga Puja celebrations have already been registered across 22 districts, and the number is expected to rise as final counts come in. From sprawling pandals to vibrant processions, every corner of Assam is gearing up to celebrate the divine festival with grandeur and fervor.
Cachar District Leads with the Highest Number of Pujas
Among the 22 districts, Cachar leads the charge with an impressive 1032 registered Durga Pujas, making it the hub of festive activity in Assam this year. Nagaon follows with 354 Pujas, while Hojai closely trails behind with 341 celebrations. Tinsukia and Hailakandi also feature prominently on the list, with 335 and 333 Pujas respectively. The Kamrup Metropolitan District, which includes the bustling city of Guwahati, has registered 266 Durga Pujas for 2024. The high numbers reflect the enthusiasm of the people of Assam and their commitment to keeping the traditions alive.
While the registered number of Durga Pujas is already impressive, several districts such as Baksa, Bajali, Biswanath, Charaideo, Dhemaji, Dhubri, Jorhat, Karimganj, Lakhimpur, Majuli, Sonitpur, Sibsagar, and West Karbi Anglong have yet to submit complete details. It is anticipated that the final tally of Durga Puja celebrations across Assam will exceed the current figure of 4804, once these districts provide their data. This demonstrates the widespread cultural importance of the festival across the state, transcending geographical and societal boundaries.
Strict Safety and Security Guidelines for Kamrup Metropolitan District
With Guwahati being one of the most prominent hubs for Durga Puja celebrations, the Kamrup Metropolitan District administration has issued a series of advisories to ensure the safety and security of devotees during the festivities. In a recently released set of guidelines, the Puja Committees have been instructed to fully cooperate with the local administrative machinery to maintain order and ensure smooth celebrations.
The guidelines emphasize the importance of obtaining proper safety certifications, including NOCs from the Public Works Department (PWD) for temporary structures, electrical safety certificates from the Chief Electrical Advisor, and fire safety certifications from the Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES). These precautions aim to prevent accidents and ensure the structural integrity of pandals, many of which draw large crowds.
Emergency Preparedness and Medical Support at Puja Pandals
Safety during the festival is a top priority, and as such, all Puja Committees are required to establish designated areas for emergency evacuation and ensure separate entry and exit points in the pandals to avoid overcrowding. Medical teams, including doctors, must be stationed at strategic points to handle any emergencies that may arise during the celebrations. This precaution is essential, considering the large number of devotees expected to attend the Durga Puja festivities across the state.
The guidelines further mandate the appointment of sufficient volunteers, both male and female, to manage crowds and maintain order at the pandals. These volunteers will work closely with local police to ensure the smooth functioning of the celebrations. All volunteers will be issued distinguishable identity cards, making them easily recognizable during the event.
Volunteer Training and Collaboration with Local Police
A crucial element of the safety measures involves the training of volunteers. In collaboration with local police, Puja Committees must brief the volunteers well in advance about their responsibilities and how to handle potential emergencies. This ensures that the volunteers are fully prepared to manage the influx of visitors, direct crowds, and provide assistance in case of any mishaps. Such measures are essential to avoid chaos and ensure that the festival remains an enjoyable and safe experience for everyone.
Assam Ready for a Joyous and Safe Durga Puja 2024
As the countdown to Durga Puja 2024 begins, Assam is abuzz with excitement and anticipation. The impressive number of registered Pujas across 22 districts highlights the cultural significance of the festival in the state. With the safety and security measures in place, including stringent guidelines for pandal construction, fire safety, and crowd management, Assam is ready to welcome devotees and celebrate the victory of good over evil with full enthusiasm.
The efforts of the Puja Committees, local administration, and volunteers in ensuring a safe environment for the celebrations reflect the community spirit that is at the heart of Durga Puja. As the festival draws closer, Assam stands poised to showcase its rich cultural heritage, where tradition meets modernity, in this grand celebration of Maa Durga’s victory.
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