What Special Arrangements Are Being Made for Smooth Idol Immersion in Kolkata?
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Synopsis
As Kolkata prepares for idol immersion on Dashami, the city faces challenges from inclement weather. Special measures by the police and municipal authorities ensure safety and cleanliness during this significant event.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced police presence at all immersion sites.
- Deployment of trained divers and rescue teams.
- Use of drones for aerial surveillance.
- Coordination with Puja committees for smooth immersion.
- Initiatives for ghats cleanliness and maintenance.
Kolkata, Oct 2 (NationPress) Due to the adverse weather conditions coinciding with the idol immersion in the Hooghly River on the auspicious day of Dashami this Thursday, both the Kolkata Police and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) have implemented numerous measures to ensure that the immersion process proceeds without any incidents.
With the rain already beginning in Kolkata, special protocols are now in effect to manage the situation.
There are a total of 28 ghats along the Hooghly River designated for idol immersion. Among these, 18 are particularly significant where large numbers of idols are traditionally immersed. Additionally, several nearby ponds will also host immersion ceremonies.
Police personnel will be deployed at all 28 ghats, alongside more than 200 locations where the idol immersion processions commence.
The River Traffic Police will oversee the ghats as well. Approximately 62 teams from the Disaster Response Force will be stationed at these ghats and ponds to prevent any disorder or incidents. Police boats equipped with divers will be on standby at 25 ghats along the river.
Moreover, five specially trained divers from the Disaster Response Force will patrol the ghats in speed boats, equipped with scuba diving gear. Around six divers will be assigned to the police boat at Baje Kadomtala ghat. This police arrangement will remain effective from October 2 to October 5.
An executive engineer will supervise the immersion work at each ghat, and an ambulance will be stationed nearby for emergencies.
Comprehensive lighting has also been arranged at the ghats for immersion activities post-sunset.
In addition to ground measures, aerial surveillance will utilize drones, and additional CCTV cameras have been installed. A rescue team is being prepared at the Water Police office.
Furthermore, special forces from the Disaster Management Group are deployed at Bagbazar Ghat, Baje Kadomtala Ghat, Gwalior Ghat, and Nimtala Ghat. Watch towers will be established at seven ghats for enhanced monitoring. A police team led by an inspector will be assigned to each ghat, with oversight from the Assistant Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners. The police will also collaborate with the municipality to assist in cleaning the ghats following the immersions.
Alerts regarding high tide timings in the Hooghly River are being sent to the mobile phones of Puja Committee members to facilitate a smooth immersion experience.
The police are maintaining strict surveillance on the Puja committees to ensure that no DJs are used during the immersion processions. Legal action will be taken against any committee found violating this rule.
Meanwhile, civic authorities have organized various arrangements to keep the ghats clean. Preparations have been made to collect flowers, betel leaves, and other offerings near the ghats ahead of the immersion. Dustbins have been installed for this purpose, and KMC sanitation workers will be present at the ghats starting from Thursday.
About 3,500 pujas are celebrated across Kolkata, encompassing both household and community celebrations.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the proactive measures taken by the Kolkata authorities to safeguard public safety during the festival. The collaboration between the police and municipal bodies reflects a commitment to community well-being during significant cultural events.
NationPress
02/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures are being taken for idol immersion in Kolkata?
Kolkata Police and KMC have implemented safety protocols, including police deployments at ghats, Disaster Response teams, and ambulance readiness to ensure a smooth immersion process.
How many ghats will host the idol immersion?
A total of 28 ghats along the Hooghly River will facilitate the idol immersion, with 18 being particularly significant.
What is the role of the Disaster Response Force?
The Disaster Response Force will have around 62 teams stationed at the ghats and ponds to manage safety and prevent chaos during the immersion.
Are there any restrictions during the immersion processions?
Yes, the police will monitor the processions to prevent the use of DJs, and legal action will be taken against any violations.
How is the cleanliness of the ghats being managed?
The KMC has arranged for sanitation workers to maintain cleanliness, and dustbins have been installed for offerings.
