New Delhi, Nov 8 : Despite COVID-19 restrictions, Delhi Government has made arrangements at 800 ghats across the city for the devotees to celebrate Chhath Puja, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia announced Today.

He said that despite COVID-19, a grand celebration for the Chhath festival would be observed in full fervour.

“It (Celebration) was limited to 80 ghats when we came in power in 2015, that too for committees of BJP, Congress. We ensured the participation by common people in the festival’s arrangements,” he added.

“This year, with the help of the government, people have set up tents at ghats. Besides this, arrangements have been made for water, security, LED display, mikes etc,” Sisodia said further.

Chhath festival began today with the ‘Nahai Khai’ ritual and will conclude on November 11 with devotees performing ‘Usha Arghya’ (prayers to the rising sun). The main celebration is on November 10 when devotees will offer ‘argha’ to Sun God.

According to Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) guidelines, celebrations are allowed only at designated sites and none of these can be set up on the Yamuna banks. Instead, special ghats for the ceremonial dip were to be used. Designated sites are to be developed by government agencies.(UNI)