Politics · India · 15 hrs ago
Bihar bans firecrackers near ghats and private boats for Chhath Puja
Bihar has banned firecrackers near ghats and private boat operations during Chhath Puja from November 13 to 16.
The state’s disaster management department has told district magistrates to secure unsafe riverbanks and manage festival crowds.
Authorities must station trained divers, swimmers, motorboats and rescue equipment at river ghats, with medical teams and ambulances ready.
They must also provide lighting, inspect electrical installations and keep district control rooms operating around the clock.
These measures are intended to prevent emergencies, panic and stampedes during the busy festival.
Chhath Puja begins with the Nahai Khai ritual on November 13 and ends on November 16, as devotees pray to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya for their families’ well-being and prosperity.
Bihar has banned firecrackers near river ghats and private boat operations during Chhath Puja.
The four-day festival runs from November 13 to 16.
District magistrates have been directed to identify and barricade unsafe ghats and deploy security personnel and volunteers.
Authorities must station trained divers, swimmers, motorboats and life-saving equipment at river ghats.
Medical teams and ambulances must remain on standby, while officials prepare plans to prevent panic and stampedes.
- Who
- The Bihar government and its Disaster Management Department directed district administrations to enforce safety measures.
- What
- Firecrackers near ghats and private boat operations are banned during Chhath Puja.
- When
- November 13 to 16, 2026.
- Where
- Bihar, including river ghats and approach roads.
- Why
- To improve safety during the festival and reduce risks including emergencies, electrocution, panic and stampedes.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The Bihar government directed district administrations to enforce safety measures for Chhath Puja.
Chhath Puja is due to begin with the Nahai Khai ritual.
The four-day festival is due to conclude.
- Festival dates
- November 13–16, 2026
- Firecrackers
- Banned near ghats
- Private boats
- Operations prohibited during the festival
- Safety staff
- Trained divers, swimmers, security personnel and volunteers
- Emergency support
- Motorboats, life-saving equipment, medical teams and ambulances must be available
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What people are saying
Authorities must ensure the availability of trained divers, swimmers, motorboats and life-saving equipment at river ghats to deal with emergencies. Medical teams, ambulances and Quick Medical Response Teams (QMRTs) have also been asked to remain on standby,