Pune: BT Kawade Road Canal Ghats Unsafe and Unhygienic Ahead of Chhath Puja
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Ghorpadi, 25th October 2025: As Chhath Puja approaches on October 27 and 28, thousands of devotees are preparing to gather at the Durga Mata Mandir Chhath Ghat along the B.T. Kawade Road canal in Ghorpadi. However, concerns have emerged over the poor condition and lack of maintenance of the ghats.
Local residents and devotees have raised alarms about the unclean and unsafe state of the canal banks, where rituals are to be performed. “The area is littered with garbage, mud, and stagnant water, posing health and safety risks for worshippers who will offer sacred prayers during sunrise and sunset”, said Akhil Mishra of Akhil Mitra Mandal, Ghorpadi.
He added, “We have also written to the irrigation department requesting the release of water into the canal, but no action has been taken so far.”
Every year, around 8,000 to 10,000 devotees visit the site for Chhath Puja rituals. Despite the large turnout, locals claim that no significant cleaning or repair work has been carried out this year. “We have repeatedly informed the authorities, but no action has been taken to improve the condition of the ghats,” said a resident.
The Durga Mata Mandir Committee, organizing the two-day event, has announced the following timings:
October 27, 2025: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
October 28, 2025: 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM
Both organizers and residents have urged the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and irrigation department to take immediate action to clean and maintain the area, install proper lighting, and implement crowd safety measures. With thousands expected to attend, they emphasize the urgent need for improvements to ensure a safe and respectful celebration of Chhath Puja.
