Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 6, 2024, Kolkata : In a move to safeguard the ecological health of its iconic lakes, the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) has announced the closure of Rabindra Sarovar and Subhash Sarovar from 8:00 pm on Wednesday, November 7, until noon on Friday, November 9, to prevent Chhath Puja celebrations at these water bodies. The closure, which follows directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), aims to avoid pollution caused by the festival’s rituals and preserve the biodiversity of these vital ecological landmarks.

The two popular lakes, Rabindra Sarovar and Subhash Sarovar, have long been central to Chhath Puja celebrations, with thousands of devotees gathering annually to offer prayers. However, in recent years, concerns have risen over the environmental damage caused by offerings, waste, and water contamination. In line with NGT orders, the lakes will remain off-limits for the festival, with authorities citing the urgent need to protect the fragile ecosystems from further harm.

As part of the measures, no public activities, including morning or evening walks, will be permitted in the lake areas during this time. Additionally, the six prominent clubs surrounding Rabindra Sarovar — including Lake Friends Swimming Club, Calcutta Swimming Club, Indian Life Saving Society, Bengal Rowing Club, Lake Club, and Calcutta Rowing Club — will remain closed from the evening of November 6 until November 8 afternoon, further ensuring the safety and security of the area.

The authorities have also ramped up security to prevent any attempts to circumvent the closure, with a heavy police presence to maintain order and prevent any public gatherings at the lakes.

To accommodate the thousands of devotees who typically celebrate Chhath Puja at Rabindra and Subhash Sarobars, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and KMDA have arranged for 80 alternative ghats across the city. These ghats, located in areas such as Mukundapur, Kasba, Lake Gardens, Bijoygarh, Patuli, Lake Town, and Sreebhumi, have been set up to ensure that the puja can continue without compromising the environment.

While KMC has organized 40 ghats, KMDA has designated another 40 locations, providing ample space for devotees to perform the rituals in a controlled and safe manner. The authorities have ensured that these ghats are equipped with necessary facilities to accommodate the large number of participants, minimizing the risk of environmental pollution.

In anticipation of large crowds, Kolkata Police have deployed around 5,000 personnel across the city, with heightened security at key locations. Around 250 officers will be stationed specifically at Rabindra Sarovar and Subhash Sarovar to enforce the closure order, while an additional 35 Deputy Commissioner-ranked officers will oversee security across the city. The police force will be supported by quick-response teams, mobile patrolling vans, and 77 disaster response teams to address any emergencies.

Special measures are in place to prevent the use of prohibited substances and ensure that the festival is celebrated peacefully. CCTV cameras will provide surveillance, and the river traffic police will be on standby to maintain order. These steps are designed to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure that the Chhath Puja festivities proceed smoothly.

The NGT’s decision to prohibit Chhath Puja at Rabindra Sarovar and Subhash Sarovar is part of a broader effort to prevent the lakes from becoming polluted during the festival. In 2016, the tribunal had allowed Chhath rituals at Rabindra Sarovar under strict regulations, but these guidelines were not effectively followed in subsequent years, prompting a complete ban starting in 2019.

Somendra Mohan Ghosh, a prominent environmental activist and member of the Save Rabindra Sarovar Forum, expressed support for the closure, highlighting the need to protect the lakes from further ecological damage. “The authorities have made alternative arrangements for devotees to celebrate Chhath Puja. It is essential that we preserve our natural resources and protect our water bodies from pollution,” Ghosh said.

While some devotees may be disappointed by the closure of the lakes, the state government and local authorities have emphasized that there are several alternative locations where the rituals can be conducted in an environmentally responsible manner.

In addition to the 80 designated ghats, the KMC has also set up giant metal tanks along Panditia Road for devotees who may find it difficult to access the ghats. These tanks will allow people to perform their rituals without the need to access public water bodies, reducing the potential for further pollution.

As the city prepares for the Chhath Puja celebrations, the authorities are taking significant steps to balance religious and cultural practices with environmental responsibility. The decision to close Rabindra Sarovar and Subhash Sarovar reflects the ongoing efforts to protect Kolkata’s vital water ecosystems while ensuring that Chhath Puja can be celebrated in a manner that is both safe and sustainable.

With increased security measures and careful coordination, the city is hoping to maintain public order while ensuring that the festival proceeds peacefully, with a renewed focus on ecological conservation and responsible civic participation.