Siliguri, Nov. 11 -- In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Siliguri is all set to witness a grand Chhath Puja Mahotsav Carnival on Thursday, November 12. Organised by the Siliguri Yuva Ekta Manch, the colourful procession aims to showcase the rich traditions, culture and rituals associated with the festival.

The carnival will begin at 11 am and continue until 2 pm. The procession will start from Payel Cinema Hall on Sevoke Road, pass in front of Anandalok Nursing Home and culminate at Checkpost. Around 40 Chhath Puja committees are expected to participate, presenting different aspects of the festival through vibrant cultural displays and traditional performances. While the city has previously hosted Durga Puja carnivals, this will be the first time a carnival is being organised to celebrate Chhath Puja.

Speaking about the initiative, Abhinandan Singh, general secretary of Siliguri Yuva Ekta Manch, appealed to people to participate in the carnival in large numbers. "I request everyone to avoid using heavy vehicles along the procession route during the event to ensure its smooth conduct," Singh said. As part of the celebrations, on the day of Chhath Puja on November 16, a nearly 60-feet-tall structure of Lord Ram will be placed at Gangangar Ghat No. 1.

Syed Waqar Raza, the Commissioner of Siliguri Police visited Gangangar, Mahananda River Ghat, Maa Santoshi Ghat to review the preparations for Chhath Puja. During his inspection, he interacted with representatives of the Puja committees and sought feedback on problems faced during previous years, assuring them that necessary measures would be taken this time.

With heavy crowds expected at the ghats, additional police personnel will be deployed to manage traffic and maintain security. CCTV cameras, barricades and special traffic arrangements will also be put in place to prevent congestion and ensure the celebrations pass off smoothly.

"Police will make all the necessary arrangements to control crowd and security during the Puja," the Commissioner said.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.