Guwahati, 27th September: With Durga Puja festivities around the corner, Kamrup (M) district authorities have rolled out a detailed set of safety guidelines aimed at ensuring a smooth, secure, and eco-friendly celebration. The directives, which include a comprehensive list of “Do’s” and “Don’ts,” emphasize safety, crowd management, and environmental responsibility.
Prioritizing Safety and Security
This year, the district authorities are urging Puja organizers and devotees alike to cooperate closely with local law enforcement and emergency services. Safety remains the cornerstone of the guidelines, as organizers must ensure that all structures, electrical fittings, and fire provisions are properly certified. No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Public Works Department (PWD), fire, and electrical departments are mandatory. The district is taking a zero-tolerance approach to unsafe structures, given the large crowds anticipated during the five-day festival.
To further bolster security, organizers must create designated entry and exit points specifically for emergency evacuations. Medical teams are required to be on standby in case of any health emergencies, providing an extra layer of safety for visitors. Trained volunteers are also a key part of the safety strategy, tasked with crowd control and assisting in managing the flow of people, especially during special programs and VIP visits.
Fire Safety and Crowd Control in Focus
Fire safety measures are another critical area addressed in the guidelines. Organizers are expected to implement robust fire safety protocols, including the installation of fire extinguishers, proper electrical wiring, and barrication for crowd management. These efforts aim to prevent any potential hazards in densely packed areas around the pandals.
In addition to safety, the district is emphasizing proper use of public address systems and responsible crowd management. Ensuring adequate drinking water and maintaining hygiene and cleanliness at the celebration sites are highlighted as top priorities. The guidelines also encourage the appointment of trained volunteers to help the police manage any large gatherings or special events.
Community Engagement and Prohibitions
One of the key instructions is to prohibit the forceful collection of donations—an issue that has caused tension in past celebrations. Organizers are required to submit detailed lists of their office bearers and volunteers to the police to maintain transparency and accountability. The district has also banned the use of drugs and alcohol at any Puja venue, ensuring a family-friendly and peaceful atmosphere for all visitors.
Furthermore, the guidelines call for enhanced security of pandals, especially during off-hours when they are empty, and mandate that all events be in coordination with local law enforcement. Any VIP visit requires advance notification to the police for proper security arrangements. Continuous power supply is a must, with generators on standby to avoid disruptions. Additionally, CCTV installations have been made compulsory to monitor large crowds and identify potential security threats.
Prohibited Practices to Ensure Public Harmony
The list of “Don’ts” issued by the authorities aims to ensure the festivities do not inconvenience the public or harm the environment. Setting up pandals on public thoroughfares, which can obstruct traffic and cause congestion, is strictly prohibited. Parking within 100 meters of the pandal is also banned to avoid unnecessary bottlenecks and ensure easy access for emergency vehicles.
In line with the district’s focus on environmental sustainability, the use of plastic banners, flags, and other non-biodegradable decorations is prohibited. Similarly, organizers are restricted from using highly inflammable materials for pandal decorations, reducing fire risks in crowded areas.
Loudspeakers, often a point of contention during festivals, must be switched off after 10 PM to avoid disturbing local residents, and organizers have been reminded to control unruly behavior during processions. The bursting of crackers, another common practice, has been discouraged to limit noise pollution and maintain a peaceful atmosphere throughout the celebration.
A Safer, Greener Celebration for All
These new guidelines reflect the district’s commitment to ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible Durga Puja celebration for all residents and visitors. By emphasizing cooperation with authorities, crowd control, fire safety, and community responsibility, Kamrup (M) district authorities hope to foster an atmosphere of peace and harmony throughout the festival.
As Durga Puja kicks off, the authorities urge everyone to adhere to the rules, promising that these measures will help make the celebration not only safer but also more enjoyable for all.