Delhi Chhath Puja holiday announced for November 16: Schools, colleges, government offices to remain closed

The Delhi government has announced a public holiday on November 16 to mark Chhath Puja. According to an official order, all government offices, autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings (PSUs) in Delhi will remain closed on Monday, November 16, on account of Pratihar Shashthi or Surya Shashthi, commonly known as Chhath Puja. The decision was announced ahead of the four-day festival, which will be celebrated from November 13 to November 16 this year. The holiday declaration has been made by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.

Delhi government announces special arrangements for Chhath Puja

Alongside the holiday announcement, the Delhi government has stepped up preparations to ensure that devotees can celebrate Chhath Puja without facing inconvenience. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta chaired a high-level meeting with officials and representatives of Chhath Puja committees on Monday. The government is preparing more than 1,400 Chhath ghats across Delhi this year, compared with 1,326 last year. Officials have been instructed to inspect these locations regularly and address any shortcomings.

11-km-long Chhath ghat being developed near Munak Canal

One of the major attractions this year will be an 11-km-long Chhath ghat being developed along the Munak Canal. The ghat will stretch from the Outer Ring Road to Inderlok and will have steps on both sides. A concrete road is also being constructed to make access easier for devotees arriving to offer prayers.According to the Chief Minister's Office, BJP national president Nitin Nabin will inaugurate the facility near Singalpur village on November 12.

CCTV cameras, changing rooms and round-the-clock cleaning at ghats

The Delhi government has also announced several arrangements to improve facilities at major Chhath ghats. These include CCTV surveillance, adequate lighting, covered tents and changing rooms for women. Officials have been asked to ensure that toilets and changing facilities remain clean and usable throughout the festival.

With a large number of devotees expected at the ghats on November 15 and 16, additional cleaning teams will remain on duty round the clock. The chief minister has also directed officials to inspect roads leading to the ghats and ensure proper lighting. No dark spots should remain along the routes used by devotees, she said.

Considering the possibility of cold weather in November, officials have also been instructed to arrange covered tents at large and medium-sized ghats wherever necessary.