Varanasi: Issuing directives to intensify preparations for Dev Deepawali celebrations, divisional commissioner Kaushal Raj Sharma asked the officials concerned to ensure that only CNG boats are given permission to operate in the Ganga in order to check pollution following the National Green Tribunal norms.The commissioner held a review meeting with the officials of the district administration, Varanasi Municipal Corporation, tourism, PWD, police and other departments on Monday evening and asked them to make the city and ghats along the Ganga ready by November 22 for the annual Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepawalion November 27.He also directed them to ensure strict compliance of NGT norms and guidelines to check pollution in the Ganga and allow only CNG boats to operate.Issuing directives to intensify the drive for removing silt from ghat steps and repair lighting, he also instructed to launch a mega sanitation drive in the city ahead of Dev Deepawali. Directing to finalise plans for crowd management, security and traffic arrangements for the festive time in advance he also asked the officials to equally focus on other rivers, ponds and water bodies where earthen lamps are lit on the auspicious occasion.He asked the officials to hold meetings with the committees engaged in daily Ganga Aarti and Dev Deepawali celebrations to share information and exchange ideas and said that earthen lamps, oil and other components should be arranged timely for the festival. He said that installation of ramps and jetties at Namo Ghat, Rajghat and Damneghat should be done timely.We also published the following articles recentlyBarricade all Ganga ghats in city for Chhath festival: DCThe Divisional Commissioner of Patna has ordered for regular monitoring of the water level in the Ganga River and the barricades at all ghats in preparation for the Chhath festival. The water level in the river is expected to decrease by up to one meter by the festival. The festival, which is the largest in the state, will see a large number of devotees participating in the rituals. The administration is making arrangements at various ghats and deploying personnel for safety and security.Diwali 2023 Date: When is Deepawali? All you need to know about the festivalDiwali 2023, the festival of lights and lamps, will be celebrated on November 12. It holds great significance among Hindus, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. People celebrate by decorating their homes, exchanging gifts, lighting diyas, and worshipping deities such as Goddess Laxmi and Lord Ganesha. The festival lasts for five days and is observed with various rituals and traditions across different cities. In addition to Diwali, other important dates and days include Dhanteras on November 10, Govardhan Puja on November 14, and Bhai Dooj on November 15.Baan Ganga MahaartiBaan Ganga is a holy site connected to the divine presence of Bhagwan Shri Ram and Laxman. It is known for the creation of a Shivling and a miraculous stream of water. The site was destroyed by the Portuguese in the 16th century but was later rebuilt and restored. The GSB Temple Trust now manages and preserves its sanctity. The Baan Ganga Maha Aarti is a significant annual event held at the site, with this years ceremony set to take place on November 26, 2023. The event will be attended by notable guests such as Swami Swaroopananda, Nitin Gokarn, and Dr. Christopher Temporelli.

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