Ludhiana: While the Sidhwan Canal gets prepared for Chhath Puja, a cultural celebration of holy dip cherished by the city's Uttar Pradesh and Bihar communities, environmental activists have requested officials to halt the release of water into the canal, citing pollution risks. Despite this, devotees look forward to observing the festival’s traditions along the canal banks.
Devotees await the release of water into Sidhwan Canal for Chhath Puja on Nov 7 and 8. Preparations, including canal cleaning, are ongoing, and officials have assured devotees that the water release is on schedule. However, environmental activists have raised concerns, urging authorities to reconsider releasing water to avoid pollution from ritual offerings. Chhath Puja includes fasting and water-based rituals honouring the sun. While many devotees still gather at local canals, others have resorted to setting up temporary pools on open plots for the ceremonies. The festival’s main rituals, where devotees stand in water to offer prayers, are planned for Thursday evening and Friday morning.
Chirag Paswan from Aadishakti Sewa Society noted: "Preparations are complete, and devotees will begin purchasing items on Wednesday. Wednesday involves a full-day fast, followed by a complete fast on Thursday until Friday morning." Paswan added that temporary ghats will be set up at Ishar Nagar after ongoing cleaning.
Meanwhile, Sanatan Dharam Prachar Manch members appealed to devotees to maintain cleanliness in observance of the festival’s symbolism of natural beauty and purity. They encouraged participants to follow traditional rituals responsibly.
Activist Kuldeep Singh Khaira voiced opposition to the water release, arguing it leads to pollution. "We raised this concern last year and have now submitted a demand notice to the deputy commissioner and irrigation department to stop the release," Khaira stated. "Water will reportedly cover the canal’s surface by Wednesday, but it is inappropriate to allow rituals that leave waste behind."