Shillong: West Garo Hills district administration officials met on Friday to review arrangements for the safe and peaceful conduct of Durga Puja celebrations.The meeting, chaired by deputy commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal, was attended by senior police officials, representatives of line departments, Tura Municipal Board, members of the Central Puja Committee (CPC), Tura, and representatives of puja committees from across the district.A total of 33 puja pandals will be set up in and around Tura, including one each at Goeragre and Rongram.The deputy commissioner said all organisers must “strictly follow” the comprehensive standard operating procedures and safety guidelines. He stressed the need for rigorous checks of electrical connections and decorations inside pandals to prevent accidents. Organisers were advised to regulate idol sizes to ensure “manageable transport” during immersion.West Garo Hills SP Abraham T Sangma asked committees to adhere to the 10 pm deadline for loud music to maintain public order and minimise noise pollution.The district administration announced measures to streamline immersion arrangements. “Only designated members and volunteers with proper identification, such as specific colored attire, will be granted access to the immersion site to avoid overcrowding and delays,” DC Aggarwal instructed.“District authorities are working in close coordination with CPC on maintaining law and order, stringent traffic management, and mandatory safety protocols for all pandals and enforcement of strict silent zones during the immersion procession, particularly along sensitive stretches such as the area near the District Maternity & Child Hospital to ensure peace and solemnity during upcoming Durga Puja celebrations,” an official statement read.
