Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 17 September 2023
A pivotal meeting was convened at the District Office, South Andaman, chaired by Ms. Veditha Reddy, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (SA), to discuss preparations for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The meeting saw the participation of key officials from various Line Departments, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the festival’s organization.
The meeting was attended by officials representing the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) Police, Port Management Board, Police Marine Force, Andaman Public Works Department (APWD), Health Services, Electricity Department, and Tourism.
Deputy Commissioner Veditha Reddy, in her opening address, provided a detailed overview of the previous meetings held between the District Office and the various Ganesh Puja organizing committees across South Andaman. During these meetings, the District Office issued a set of instructions and guidelines aimed at ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the Puja celebrations.
One of the key points emphasized by DC (SA) Veditha Reddy was the importance of line Departments taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of celebrants. This included conducting thorough inspections of Puja Pandals to assess their readiness for any potential contingencies, such as fire hazards, crowd management, traffic congestion, and the prevention of any unlawful activities in the vicinity of the Pandals. To ensure compliance with these guidelines, surprise checks were also mandated.
In her address, Deputy Commissioner Veditha Reddy stressed the need for meticulous planning regarding the immersion of Ganesh idols. To avoid traffic congestion, two designated locations were identified for idol immersion: Chatham and Jodakalan. To ensure the safety of participants during the immersion process, the concerned Departments were tasked with erecting reinforcements on both sides of the bridges, installing gensets and focus lights for improved visibility, deploying lifeguards and boats near the designated immersion sites, and providing cranes for assistance.
In addition to these safety measures, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the establishment of Communication Rooms at both immersion locations, complete with adequate communication equipment. Ambulances staffed with paramedics were also to be stationed at these sites to address any medical emergencies that might arise.
As the preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi continue to unfold, the collaborative efforts of District Officials and Line Departments are expected to ensure a safe and joyous celebration for all participants. The festival, which holds great cultural and religious significance, is eagerly awaited by the community in South Andaman, and these proactive measures aim to make it a memorable and secure event.