Guwahati, Sept 18: With Durga Puja festivities just around the corner, Guwahati Police has rolled out a detailed set of guidelines to ensure smooth, safe, and peaceful celebrations across the city. The advisory—issued on Thursday—covers public safety, fire security, traffic flow, noise restrictions, and responsible celebration practices.
Key Highlights of the Guidelines
- Mandatory Permissions: Puja committees must secure approvals from respective authorities before setting up pandals at public places. Proper fitness certificates for electrical setups and sound systems are also compulsory.
- Fire Safety Measures: Organisers must ensure fire extinguishers and other safety equipment are available at every pandal. Emergency exits and fire safety drills have been made mandatory.
- Noise Control: Loudspeakers and public address systems must strictly follow noise limits — capped at 55 dB (A) between 6 AM and 10 PM and 45 dB (A) from 10 PM to 6 AM.
- Crowd & Traffic Management: Committees must deploy adequate volunteers in collaboration with the police for crowd regulation. Special arrangements are to be made for VIP and emergency vehicle movement near pandals.
- No Tobacco & Alcohol Zones: Celebration areas must be marked with clear signboards declaring them tobacco- and alcohol-free zones.
- Environmental Protection: The use of plastics, thermocol, and non-biodegradable items has been prohibited. Eco-friendly decorations have been encouraged to maintain a green celebration.
- Surveillance & Security: Organisers are directed to install CCTV cameras at key points around pandals for monitoring and to support law enforcement in case of emergencies.
Police Advisory on Responsible Festivities
Guwahati Police emphasized that Durga Puja is not just a festival of devotion but also a collective responsibility. Organisers have been urged to maintain discipline, follow regulations, and cooperate with enforcement teams to ensure safe and inclusive celebrations.
The Commissioner of Police further appealed to citizens to extend full cooperation, highlighting that keeping roads obstruction-free, noise levels under control, and celebrations safe will help everyone enjoy the festival without disruptions.
Emergency Contact Numbers
For any emergency during the Puja days, the police have also released dedicated helpline numbers, including fire services, medical response teams, and divisional police control rooms, ensuring round-the-clock assistance.
This year’s Durga Puja in Guwahati is expected to draw record crowds, and the new guidelines reflect the city’s efforts to balance tradition, celebration, and public safety.