Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) is making elaborate preparations for this year’s Durga Puja celebrations, with as many as 190 pandals set to come up across the city, BMC Mayor Sulochana Das said on Tuesday.
Addressing the media, the Mayor said that each pandal will feature unique and attractive designs, aimed at drawing not just local devotees but also visitors from other parts of the state and country.
“Bhubaneswar has always celebrated Durga Puja with grandeur and devotion. This year, the arrangements are being made in a way that devotees can enjoy the festivities without any inconvenience,” she said.
The Mayor also reviewed the city’s ongoing infrastructure and civic preparations, including road construction, street lighting, sanitation, and crowd management. She informed that major roadwork is being expedited and will be completed before the Puja.
“The Works Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, has also held a preparatory meeting to ensure timely completion of key projects,” she added.
To ensure public safety and convenience, the BMC is coordinating with various departments. Rapid Response Teams will be deployed in waterlogging-prone areas to handle emergency situations in case of rain. The sanitation wing will intensify bush-cutting and cleanliness drives in and around puja venues.
Das further stated that street lights are functional and tree trimming work is ongoing to avoid any obstruction during the celebrations.
“All departments are working in coordination to ensure a smooth and hassle-free Puja experience for the public,” she said.
The BMC is also focusing on environment-friendly practices. The Mayor urged all Puja committees and vendors to minimise the use of single-use plastic. The civic body will continue its flower waste collection drive.
On the traffic front, Das said the traffic police will soon release detailed plans for managing vehicle flow and parking around major pandals.
“With joint efforts and proper coordination, we aim to ensure that this year’s Durga Puja is as successful and peaceful as in previous years,” she added.
