Has the Kolkata Civic Body Set a 14-Day Deadline for Durga Puja Committees to Clear Parks?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal move, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation has mandated that Durga Puja committees dismantle their structures from city parks within two weeks after the immersion. This decision aims to ensure community access to public spaces while addressing long-standing complaints from residents.
Key Takeaways
- KMC mandates a 14-day removal deadline for Durga Puja mandaps.
- This decision addresses long-standing complaints from residents.
- Local MLA Debasish Kumar emphasizes public access to parks.
- Failure to comply may lead to strict penalties for puja committees.
- Preparations for Kali Puja could be affected by delays in dismantling.
Kolkata, Sep 13 (NationPress) The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) announced on Saturday that Durga Puja committees must ensure the reopening of parks utilized for puja mandaps within a strict timeframe of 14 days following the idol immersion in the city.
A representative from KMC stated that this requirement has been in place since permission was granted for the use of parks for puja festivities.
The decision to enforce a deadline was made after noticing that numerous parks remain inaccessible to the public for extended periods post-Durga Puja due to delays by puja committees in dismantling mandap structures.
Residents have consistently raised concerns with KMC regarding their inability to access parks because of these structures.
Debasish Kumar, a member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the KMC's Member in Council for Gardens, initiated this directive to address residents' complaints.
Kumar has emphasized that any mandap erected in a park must be taken down within 14 days after Vijaya Dashami.
"Parks belong to the community. While permission is granted for worship there, they must be returned promptly, under strict conditions. This year, we will take stringent action if these regulations are ignored," stated the TMC MLA.
He also noted, "Following Durga Puja, Kali Puja celebrations are held in various parks. Delays in dismantling Durga Puja pandals could disrupt preparations for Kali Puja. Hence, we've established this two-week deadline."
Historically, several parks used for Durga Puja festivities have remained closed to the public for almost a month afterward.
This closure results from the puja committees' procrastination in removing the mandap structures.
Consequently, local residents face numerous challenges, including inconvenience for the elderly who wish to walk in the morning and evening, and obstacles for children wanting to play due to the bamboo structures blocking the park.
Major puja committees that utilize parks for Durga Puja include Jagat Mukherjee Park, Kumartuli Park, Deshapriya Park, Khidirpur 25 Palli, Santosh Mitra Square, Pratapaditya Road Trikon Park, and Jatin Das Park.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that the KMC's new mandate reflects a growing concern for public accessibility and community engagement. By establishing a clear timeframe for dismantling mandap structures, the KMC seeks to balance the cultural significance of Durga Puja with the practical needs of residents. This proactive approach can enhance community relations and ensure that public spaces serve their intended purpose.
NationPress
30/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new deadline set by KMC for Durga Puja committees?
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has set a 14-day deadline for Durga Puja committees to remove their mandap structures from city parks after the idol immersion.
Why has KMC imposed this deadline?
The deadline was imposed to ensure that parks remain accessible to the public, as many have historically been closed for extended periods following the festivities due to delays in dismantling the structures.
What actions will KMC take if the deadline is not met?
KMC has indicated that strict action will be taken against any committee that fails to comply with the 14-day removal requirement.
How does this decision affect local residents?
This decision is aimed at alleviating the inconvenience faced by local residents, allowing them access to parks for recreation and daily activities.
Which parks are involved in this directive?
Prominent parks involved include Jagat Mukherjee Park, Kumartuli Park, Deshapriya Park, and others used for Durga Puja celebrations.
