With the sunrise of the final Chhath prayers behind them, Haryana’s civic bodies have switched from “facilitation mode” to “restoration mode” to handle the aftermath of the massive gatherings.
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Scale of the Drive: In Gurugram alone, over 60 designated sites (including artificial ponds and canal banks) are being cleared. The Municipal Corporation (MCG) has deployed nearly 500 additional sanitation staff specifically for post-Chhath duty.
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Ecological Protection: The primary focus is the removal of non-biodegradable materials like plastic bags, styrofoam plates, and synthetic clothing often left behind. “Our priority is to ensure that the ritual remains do not choke the canal inlets or lead to water stagnation,” said a senior official from the Haryana Irrigation Department.
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Waste Processing: Most of the floral waste and organic offerings are being segregated at the site to be transported to composting units. In Panipat, the local administration has partnered with NGOs to convert the “Havan” remains and flowers into organic incense sticks and fertilizers.
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Canal Restoration: In districts like Ambala and Yamunanagar, where natural canal banks were used, workers are leveling the temporary stairs and sandbags used for the ghats to ensure that the natural flow of water is not obstructed before the peak winter irrigation season begins.
Community Sentiment
“The Chhath celebrations were beautiful this year, but the ghats were left in quite a mess. It’s heartening to see the municipal workers out so early to clear it up. As devotees, we should also take responsibility, but the government’s quick action ensures the canals remain clean for the farmers downstream,” said a resident and volunteer from Faridabad.
