All arrangements must be in place before Chhath, negligence in ensuring devotees’ safety and convenience will not be tolerated: CM Rekha Gupta
New Delhi, October 2026 : Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta inspected preparations for the Chhath festival at Soor Ghat on Monday. She directed officials to ensure thorough cleaning of the ghat premises and carry out necessary repairs and painting to make the area clean and attractive. She said sections that had remained in poor condition for years should be properly repaired instead of being given temporary fixes. Delhi Cabinet Minister Kapil Mishra and senior officials from the concerned departments were present during the inspection.
During the visit, the Chief Minister directed officials to immediately repair dilapidated gates, rusted structures and other damaged sections, and address sanitation issues. She warned that any negligence would not be tolerated. Reviewing the lighting arrangements, she instructed officials to ensure adequate illumination on both sides of the ghat and check and repair all lights. When she found shortcomings in the water arrangements, she sought explanations from officials and directed them to inspect the water connections and ensure adequate bathing facilities for devotees. Expressing concern over the poor condition of toilets and other basic amenities, she ordered immediate cleaning, repairs and proper maintenance. She made it clear that planning alone was not enough; all facilities must be functional and fit for use.
The Chief Minister reviewed the ongoing works and their timelines. In view of the lack of a clear action plan and the shortcomings that needed to be addressed, she directed all concerned departments to coordinate with one another and complete every pending task within the stipulated time. She said arrangements must be put in order well before Chhath rather than waiting until the festival day, so that devotees do not face any inconvenience. She instructed officials to give the highest priority to cleaning, repairs, painting, lighting, security and all facilities for devotees. She made it clear that no negligence in the preparations would be accepted.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said Chhath is a celebration of faith, emotions and traditions connected to their roots for lakhs of families from Purvanchal living in Delhi. Providing every devotee with a clean, safe and convenient environment is the government’s responsibility. Respecting every devotee’s faith and keeping every family’s needs in mind, the government is making preparations for the Chhath festival.
