Cuttack, Sep 11: With Durga Puja preparations in full swing, the Cuttack district administration has issued a stern warning to puja committees: any construction of gates, arches, or pandals without a valid No Objection Certificate (NOC) will be dismantled.

The move comes as part of a broader effort to ensure public safety and regulatory compliance during the festive season.

At a preparatory meeting held at Shaheed Bhavan, District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde emphasized that adequate time had been given to all committees to obtain NOCs through a single-window system. Out of 170 registered puja mandaps, only 117 have secured the necessary approvals so far.

The administration has prioritized fire safety, electrical standards, and crowd management this year. Committees failing to meet these requirements will face strict action. Officials have been directed to inspect pandals for fire extinguishers, proper electrical wiring, and structural safety before granting final clearance.

In a proactive step, ambulances and medical teams will be deployed along major routes during the immersion procession (Bhasani Shobhayatra). The Collector confirmed that emergency services will be stationed strategically to respond to any incidents.

Additionally, the administration has decided to complete road repairs, electrical maintenance, and water supply arrangements before the puja begins. These measures aim to ensure a smooth and safe celebration for devotees and visitors.

The Collector reiterated that unauthorized constructions on public roads will not be tolerated, and SOPs must be strictly followed. Puja committees have been urged to cooperate fully and uphold the spirit of the festival while ensuring public safety.

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