The Chandigarh civic body has organised a zero waste event at the Chhath Puja. Chhath, the four-day festival, that commenced with nahay khay (a ritual of river bath) on November 17 and will conclude with arghaya (prayer and dedication) on November 20 is being celebrated in a unique way in Chandigarh this year. The Municipal Corporation has developed a sarovar (water body) for performing the ritual at Indra Colony, Manimajra, along with all the necessary materials through its self-help groups, all at one platform. It was a zero-waste programme organised by the MC. After the programme, it was stated that all the decoration flowers will be used in Arpan project of the civic body and other residue of puja ritual of Chhath will be collected by the Visar Vahan for recycling. To make Chhath Puja a truly special occasion this year, the MC has provided a comprehensive platform for performing the ritual of puja at a green belt in Indra Colony. This includes the development of a beautiful water body and an attractive landscape. Additionally, green rooms have been set up for changing clothes, and stalls have been organised to provide all the required items for the puja ceremony, prepared by women self-help groups. In order to cater to the needs of the general public participating in the puja, zero-waste food stalls have been set up, displaying a variety of food items from registered vendors of the Municipal Corporation. Furthermore, various cultural programmes and performances by renowned Bhojpuri singers have been organised to enhance the festive atmosphere. "The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation is delighted to provide a holistic platform for the celebration of Chhath Puja this year," said Mayor Anup Gupta. He said that the MC has taken into consideration the needs and preferences of the residents and visitors alike, by offering a serene environment, necessary materials, and enjoyable cultural programmes. The aim was to create a memorable and inclusive experience for everyone involved, he added. The mayor said that in an effort to maintain cleanliness in and around the green belt, the MC has taken steps to collect the residue from the ritual puja site using its Visar Vahan on November 20. Municipal Commissioner Anindita Mitra said that this unique celebration of Chhath Puja exemplifies the commitment of the Chandigarh MC to creating inclusive and delightful experiences for its citizens.
