BMC Announces Safety Measures for Durga Puja Celebrations

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has outlined a comprehensive plan to ensure a safe and disciplined celebration of Durga Puja this year. A preparatory meeting, attended by the BMC Commissioner, Mayor, corporators, police officials, and representatives from WATCO, Fire Services, and other departments, took key decisions for the upcoming festivities.

One of the major resolutions includes a complete ban on obscene dance performances at melody shows during the festival. The civic body has also stressed proper parking arrangements, stating that permission for fairs or Ravana effigy burning will not be granted in areas without adequate parking facilities.

BMC has directed that the festival be observed in a plastic-free manner. Puja committees have been instructed not to install decorative gates on main roads, while all idol immersion points will have control rooms and ambulances on standby to handle emergencies.

The police will run awareness campaigns in puja pandals against drug abuse. In preparation for the celebrations, the city has prioritised the repair of damaged electric poles and wires, and the Public Works Department has been tasked with completing road repair works before the festival, with a deadline set by the Commissioner. Each ward will receive ₹5 lakh to fix potholes and damaged stretches.

To ensure public safety, stray dogs will also be removed from areas surrounding puja pandals.

With these measures, BMC aims to provide a safe, orderly, and enjoyable Durga Puja experience for residents and visitors alike.