Patna Ram Navami Preparations: Safety Measures for 40-Ft Idol Procession
In Patna, the district administration has issued directives to ensure safety during the upcoming Ram Navami celebrations, which will feature a towering 40-foot-high idol of Lord Ram. The South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL) has been instructed to implement all necessary precautions to prevent electrocution or accidents along the procession route.
Power Safety and Infrastructure Adjustments
Azad Kumar Singh, executive engineer of SBPDCL for Gaya urban, confirmed that work is underway to address low-hanging distribution cables. The Discom plans to temporarily halt power supply along the procession path to safeguard participants. Additionally, the idol will be mounted on a crane, further increasing its height and necessitating careful planning.
District Magistrate Shashank Shubhankar and SSP Sushil Kumar conducted an inspection of the route from Azad Park to Vishnupad, identifying issues such as open drains and uneven roads. The DM expressed dissatisfaction and ordered officials to cover the drains and level the road surface to ensure smooth passage for the processions.
Procession Details and Security Protocols
Mani Lal Barik, general secretary of the Ramnavmi Puja Samiti, announced that a total of 105 shobha yatras will be organized across the city, with the highest number—30—originating from the Vishnupad area. Barik clarified that swords will not be distributed among processionists; instead, weapons will be awarded only to the top three performing Akhadas as per tradition.
Security measures include:
- Setting up a mini-control room near Kali Mandir in Murarpur, a sensitive point.
- Installing CCTV coverage and adequate lighting.
- Deploying magistrates and implementing strong barricading arrangements.
- Maintaining high-level vigilance in mixed-population and sensitive areas.
Communication and Medical Preparedness
The district administration has emphasized the importance of communication regarding power cuts. SBPDCL will send SMS messages to power users, informing them in advance about the duration and areas affected by the temporary power suspension. Medical facilities and proper lighting will be ensured near Azad Park, where all processions are set to congregate before proceeding to Vishnupad.
These comprehensive preparations aim to balance religious festivities with public safety, reflecting the administration's proactive approach to managing large-scale events in Patna.
