Delhi to Build 1,400+ Chhath Ghats; Public Holiday Announced
CM Rekha Gupta announces over 1,400 Chhath ghats in Delhi and a public holiday on Nov 16, 2026, to ensure a grand celebration.
In a massive push to facilitate the upcoming Chhath Mahaparv, the Delhi government has announced the construction of over 1,400 Chhath ghats across the national capital. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, during a high-level review meeting with senior officials, outlined a comprehensive plan to ensure that devotees can celebrate the festival with ease and safety from November 13 to November 16, 2026.
To mark the significance of the occasion, the state government has also declared a public holiday on November 16, 2026.
Scaling Up Infrastructure for Devotees
The administration is significantly expanding its capacity this year. Moving beyond the 1,326 ghats established last year, the city will now see more than 1,400 sites prepared for the rituals. The distribution of these sites is designed for maximum accessibility across all 11 districts of Delhi.
The Breakdown of Ghats:
- Artificial Ghats: Approximately 1,300 artificial ghats will be set up throughout the city.
- Natural Ghats: 23 natural ghats are being developed along the Yamuna riverbank, spanning the stretch from Palla village to Kalindi Kunj.
- Model Ghats: 17 specialized "model Chhath ghats" will be created to set a benchmark for facilities and management.
Strict Deadlines and Quality Control
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has set a hard deadline for all foundational work. By November 6, officials must ensure that water filling, the installation of tents, and final sanitization processes are fully completed. The CM has made it clear that there will be a zero-tolerance policy regarding any lapses in safety or cleanliness.
Beyond the ghats themselves, the government is focusing on the surrounding environment. This includes road repairs, ensuring pathways are dust-free, and enhancing lighting in the vicinity of the prayer sites to ensure safe movement during the early morning and evening rituals.
Prioritizing Safety and Convenience
To manage the massive crowds expected during the Mahaparv, the government is deploying a variety of safety and utility measures:
- Women's Facilities: Dedicated changing rooms and adequate toilet facilities will be provided.
- Security: CCTV surveillance will be installed at high-crowd locations to monitor activity.
- Emergency Response: Fire tenders will be strategically deployed to prevent and manage accidents.
A Collaborative Effort
The scale of the preparations involves a coordinated effort across multiple departments. The recent review meeting saw the participation of the Chief Secretary, representatives from the Delhi Police, Traffic Police, Delhi Jal Board, Municipal Corporations, New Delhi Municipal Council, Public Works Department, Irrigation and Flood Control Department, the Revenue Department, and Fire Services.
Global Outreach
Looking to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the festival, the Delhi government plans to extend invitations to foreign ambassadors. By inviting international diplomats to witness the Chhath Mahaparv, the administration aims to highlight the spiritual and cultural significance of the festival on a global stage.