Shillong, Oct 14: Durga Puja pandals blocking PWD roads won’t be allowed from next year.
East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal made it clear today after pressure groups raised objections over traffic jams and public inconvenience in Shillong.
Baranwal said sector magistrates have been told to coordinate with local dorbars and police to minimise trouble while allowing celebrations.
On RR Colony and Luckier Road, two flashpoints every year, he said several rounds of talks were held with dorbars. Shifting pandals this year was not practical for committees.
“While construction as per PWD NOC has been allowed, it has been made clear such arrangements cannot continue in future because of public inconvenience and traffic diversions,” Baranwal said.
This year, the administration managed tweaks. At Luckier Road, the pandal was pushed off the main carriageway and confined beside the drain after the sector magistrate intervened. RR Colony pandal has traditionally occupied part of the road, forcing diversions on Saptami, Ashtami and Navami.
Local dorbars have also asked RR Colony Puja Committee to look for an alternative venue from next year.
For this year, police will deploy extra traffic personnel at congestion points, keep diversions short and limited, and make public announcements in RR Colony. Idol immersion will be coordinated with police.
On undertakings from organisers, DC said it is standard procedure for all events, not just Durga Puja. Similar undertakings were taken for the KSU rally on Sept 19. “Undertaking does not mean organisers will be held liable for something not their fault. It will be investigated,” he said.
On demand for extra buses to cut private vehicles during Puja, Baranwal said the administration will take it up with the Transport department.
