Interview Times 
BHUBANESWAR: As Durga Puja 2024 approaches, preparations in Bhubaneswar are in full swing, with the city eagerly awaiting the arrival of Goddess Durga. In a bid to ensure eco-friendliness during the festivities, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued strict guidelines to promote a plastic-free celebration.
Under the new directives, the use of plastic materials is prohibited within puja pandals. To support this initiative, numerous dustbins will be strategically placed around the puja sites to encourage proper waste disposal. Additionally, garbage collection vehicles will operate twice daily to maintain cleanliness and order throughout the celebrations.
To facilitate idol immersion, the BMC has constructed five temporary water bodies, providing dedicated spaces for this important ritual. Mayor Sulochana Das emphasized the significance of these eco-friendly measures, reaffirming the corporation’s commitment to protecting the environment during the festivities.
However, the preparation process has encountered challenges due to recent inclement weather, which has delayed essential road repair work. Mayor Das reassured citizens that efforts are underway to complete the necessary repairs before the festival begins. The Public Works Department has been instructed to expedite the process, ensuring that roads damaged by rain are in good condition for the anticipated influx of visitors during Durga Puja.
With these initiatives, Bhubaneswar aims to create a joyful and environmentally responsible atmosphere for the 2024 celebrations, embodying the spirit of community and sustainability.
