📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Gaurav Dhwaj Khadka
Religion
West Bengal Govt Seeks NGT Approval for Chhath Puja at City Lake
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 07 Nov 2026, 09:33 PM
👁 20
The West Bengal government is awaiting a decision from the National Green Tribunal before proceeding with Chhath Puja celebrations at the City Lake, citing environmental concerns.
The West Bengal government has announced that it is waiting for a ruling from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) before it can officially launch Chhath Puja celebrations at the City Lake. The decision comes after environmental experts raised concerns about the potential impact of large crowds and ritual activities on the lake’s ecosystem.
Chhath Puja, a major Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, is traditionally observed with large gatherings at water bodies. In recent years, the festival has attracted thousands of devotees to the City Lake, prompting scrutiny over waste management and water pollution.
The NGT has been asked to review the environmental clearance for the event, focusing on measures such as waste disposal, noise control, and the use of firewood for rituals. The tribunal’s verdict is expected to set guidelines that balance religious observance with ecological preservation.
The state government has expressed its readiness to comply with any conditions imposed by the NGT. It has also highlighted its plans to improve infrastructure around the lake, including better sanitation facilities and waste segregation systems.
Once the NGT issues its nod, the government will proceed with official arrangements for Chhath Puja, ensuring that the festival is conducted safely and sustainably.
Chhath Puja, a major Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, is traditionally observed with large gatherings at water bodies. In recent years, the festival has attracted thousands of devotees to the City Lake, prompting scrutiny over waste management and water pollution.
The NGT has been asked to review the environmental clearance for the event, focusing on measures such as waste disposal, noise control, and the use of firewood for rituals. The tribunal’s verdict is expected to set guidelines that balance religious observance with ecological preservation.
The state government has expressed its readiness to comply with any conditions imposed by the NGT. It has also highlighted its plans to improve infrastructure around the lake, including better sanitation facilities and waste segregation systems.
Once the NGT issues its nod, the government will proceed with official arrangements for Chhath Puja, ensuring that the festival is conducted safely and sustainably.