With Durga Puja, the greatest festival of Bengalis, just weeks away, preparations are in full swing across the state. In this context, an important coordination meeting was held on Thursday under the chairmanship of West District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar with Puja organizers of the West District. 

The meeting, aimed at ensuring smooth and peaceful celebrations, was also attended by West District Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak, senior administrative officials, and law enforcement representatives.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on crowd management, traffic arrangements, public safety, and adherence to government guidelines. District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar emphasized that the administration’s primary goal is to ensure that the festival, which attracts lakhs of devotees and visitors every year, passes off without any untoward incidents. He stated that clubs and organizers have been instructed to follow specific rules and regulations to avoid congestion and maintain discipline.

Highlighting the challenges posed by ongoing drainage work in the capital, the District Magistrate pointed out that several key roads have narrowed in width. To prevent additional inconvenience to commuters, Puja committees have been strictly advised not to extend decorative lighting or pandal structures beyond the designated road boundaries. He warned that any violation of this directive could severely disrupt vehicle movement. “If the administrative instructions are ignored, strict action will be taken against the concerned clubs, and in extreme cases, even their Puja arrangements may be halted,” he cautioned.

Further, the administration has fixed specific limits for pandal and idol heights. As per the directive, pandals must not exceed 40 feet in height, the idols should be within 20 feet, and the decorative lighting gates should also be restricted to 20 feet. However, Dr. Vishal Kumar clarified that these measurements are tentative, and the final decision will be made after further consultations with Puja organizers to ensure both safety and aesthetic appeal are maintained.

Another key focus of the meeting was the safety and security of visitors. Organizers have been urged to prioritize arrangements such as fire safety measures, crowd-control mechanisms, emergency medical facilities, and adequate exit routes. District Magistrate Dr. Kumar stressed that the responsibility lies with the clubs to ensure that visitors, including women, children, and elderly people, can enjoy the festivities without fear or discomfort. He reminded the committees that Durga Puja is not just a cultural event but a celebration that unites communities, and any lapse in safety could mar its spirit.

The Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak also addressed the gathering, assuring that security deployment will be strengthened during the Puja days