Sambalpur: Durga Puja and Diwali Peace and Coordination Committee Meeting, Noise Limit and Electrical Repairs Directive
Sambalpur: The Sambalpur district administration has directed that safe distances be maintained during the construction of Puja pandals. They also ordered an inspection of the pandal structure. The noise level must stay within the 65-decibel limit. To ensure an uninterrupted power supply during the festival, the TPWODL authorities have been asked to complete electrical repairs by October 2nd. Following an inspection, temporary electricity connections will be made to the Puja pandals. To avoid short circuits, the administration has emphasized the importance of keeping electric supply lines at the minimum approved height.
Focus on Peace and Safety
The Peace and Coordination Committee met at the Sambalpur Zilla Parishad Conference Hall, presided over by Sambalpur District Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar, to discuss plans for a peaceful and orderly Durga Puja and Diwali celebration. The meeting was attended by SP Mukesh Bhamu, SMC Commissioner Vedabhushan, Additional District Magistrate Sucharu Bal, Additional SP Albinious Kerketta, Additional SP Haresh Pandey, and Sub-Collector Pushpanjali Panda, among others.
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Public Health and Safety Arrangements
The administration has formed teams for various tasks, such as cleaning roads, inspecting streetlights, and ensuring proper sanitation for the festival. Temporary food stalls, hotels, and restaurants must maintain hygiene standards, and health officers are instructed to conduct surprise inspections. During the Puja days, a continuous water supply will be provided, and strict measures will be taken to prevent the sale of illegal liquor. Additionally, fire prevention measures such as storing sand and water buckets near the pandals will be required.
Traffic and Security Arrangements
To avoid accidents, all officials have been instructed to check overhead wires along procession routes. To ensure that processes run smoothly, officials have been asked to coordinate security measures. The immersion processions will take place in designated areas, in collaboration with the Sambalpur Municipal Commissioner and a Regional Officer from the State Pollution Control Board.
Press Protest Over Meeting Access
Journalists expressed dissatisfaction because they were not informed of the meeting and were not permitted to attend, despite learning about it from other sources. They contacted the District Collector to protest the lack of transparency.
Public Helpline and Control Room
To prevent any unfortunate incidents, a general helpline number, 18003456791, will be available throughout the festival. The SP office has set up a control room to keep track of the situation. Furthermore, only eco-friendly fireworks will be used during Ravan Dahan and processions, as stated in a press release.
