DM and SSP Conduct Joint Inspection of Ganga Ghats; Instructions Issued to Finalize Preparations
Bhagalpur: In view of the upcoming festivals and the rising water level of the Ganga, the district administration has become fully alert. On Monday, the District Magistrate (DM) and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) jointly inspected various Ganga ghats in the district. During this visit, the officials closely examined the security arrangements, cleanliness, barricading, and approach routes to the ghats.
Assessment of Security Arrangements and Preparations
During the inspection, the DM and SSP primarily visited Simaria Ghat (and nearby locations), Barari Ghat, and other major ghats in the vicinity. During the meeting, emphasis was placed on ensuring that devotees coming to take a holy dip in the Ganga do not face any inconvenience. The officials focused specifically on the following points:
Barricading: Instructions were issued to identify deep-water areas and install sturdy bamboo barricading there, ensuring that devotees do not cross the safe limits.
Lighting Arrangements: Orders have been given to install high-mast lights and additional street lights around the ghats to maintain visibility even after sunset.
Deployment of Divers: To deal with potential emergency situations, instructions were given to keep skilled divers and the NDRF team deployed at sensitive ghats.
Special Emphasis on Cleanliness and Public Facilities
During the inspection, the DM directed local Municipal Corporation officials to pay special attention to the cleanliness of the ghats. He instructed that silt (mud) accumulated on the stairs and banks of the ghats should be removed as soon as possible to prevent slipping. Additionally, strict instructions were given to repair the paths leading to the ghats and remove any encroachments from them.
Discussing traffic management, the SSP stated that the pressure of vehicles on routes leading to the ghats increases during festivals. A traffic plan will be prepared for this, ensuring that the path for ambulances and emergency services always remains clear. The blueprint for the deployment of police forces has also been prepared, in which the active participation of female police personnel will be ensured.
Appeal for Cooperation from the Public
Speaking to the media after the inspection, senior officials appealed to the public to follow the safety guidelines issued by the district administration. They said, "Our goal is the safety of every devotee. People should avoid going to areas that have been declared dangerous."
The administration has also clarified that control rooms will be set up at the ghats, from where the entire area will be monitored through CCTV cameras. Additionally, arrangements for medical camps are being made so that immediate assistance can be provided in case of any physical distress.
Pledge to Complete Work in a Time-Bound Manner
At the end of the meeting, a deadline was given to officials of all concerned departments. The DM clearly stated that any deficiencies found during the inspection must be rectified within 48 hours. The administration is fully prepared to ensure that this grand festival of faith for the devotees concludes without any untoward incidents.
