CHATTOGRAM, Sept 19, 2024 (BSS) - Preparations for Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival for the Hindu community, are progressing with great enthusiasm across Chattogram district.

According to the Chattogram District Puja Udjapon Parishad, this year's festival will begin on September 28 with Maha Shashthi and conclude on October 2 with the immersion of idols following Bijoya Dashami. The immersion ceremonies will take place in various water bodies throughout the port city and its neighboring upazilas.

Advocate Netai Proshad Goash, President of the Chattogram District Puja Udjapon Parishad, told BSS that over 2,485 puja mandaps have been set up across the district, including 292 in the port city, covering all 14 upazilas and 15 thanas under the Chattogram City Corporation.

He noted that while idol installations have been completed, finishing touches such as painting and polishing are still underway. He added the government and its relevant agencies have pledged full support and security for the festivities.

Advocate Nikil Das, leader of the Chattogram City Puja Udjapon Parishad, said that the Hindu community in the city has established 292 puja mandaps this year. "Devotees are eagerly preparing to welcome the festival, and artisans are busy crafting idols of Goddess Durga," he added.
To ensure a smooth celebration, the Power Development Board in Chattogram has taken steps to guarantee uninterrupted electricity supply at all puja venues, enabling devotees to perform rituals without disruption.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Saiful Islam Santo said a three-tier security plan is being implemented throughout the district, with law enforcement personnel stationed around all puja mandaps. Most venues will also be equipped with CCTV surveillance for enhanced safety.

The Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) confirmed that similar three-tier security measures will be in place across all 292 city mandaps, with more than 3,500 law enforcement personnel deployed to maintain law and order. A central control room will be set up by the CMP and district police to monitor the situation throughout the festival.

Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanom assured that comprehensive preparations are in place. The government has allocated 1,264.5 metric tons of rice to support the 2,485 mandaps in both the city and district. A dedicated control room will also be operational at the DC office during the celebrations.

She added that vigilance teams, led by additional deputy commissioners and Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs), have been formed to assist the Hindu community and ensure the festival is celebrated with peace and religious fervor.