Bihar deploys disaster response forces at ghats for Chhath Puja

Bihar has placed disaster response teams at water bodies across the state for Chhath Puja.

The arrangements cover the third and fourth days of the festival.

On these days, women fast and offer arghya to the sun while standing in knee-deep water.

Large crowds gather at rivers and ponds during this time.

Key points

• Rescue forces and divers are posted at ghats across Bihar.
• The State Disaster Response Force and National Disaster Response Force are on duty.
• Local divers and Aapda Mitras, trained disaster volunteers, are also deployed.
• The festival ends on November 16.

Which teams are on duty at the ghats?

The Disaster Management Department has deployed the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

These are trained teams that handle emergencies.

SDRF personnel are at 254 ghats. NDRF teams are stationed at 123 ghats.

Local divers and Aapda Mitras are placed at 12,806 ghats across the state. Aapda Mitras are disaster response volunteers.

Why is this needed during the festival?

The main goal is to keep devotees safe during large gatherings at water bodies.

Teams are also ready for quick rescue and relief if an emergency happens.

A senior official in Patna said all ghats are ready.

He said permanent ghats are connected to the riverfront, so devotees can reach them easily.

Advisories have also been issued for visitors and devotees. Officials have been told to make sure devotees face no trouble.

What happens next in the festival?

On Sunday, devotees offer arghya to the setting sun at the Ganga and other rivers across the state.

Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary greeted people on social media on the same day.

The festival ends on Monday, when devotees offer arghya to the rising sun.

The four-day festival began on November 13 and concludes on November 16.

Sources

• Hindustan Times: Disaster response forces deployed at water bodies for Chhath Puja; Bihar CM greets devotees