Ranchi (Jharkhand): With Chhath Puja approaching, several ghats across Ranchi are witnessing unauthorised claims over spaces, as people have started writing their names and mobile numbers on steps and riverbanks to mark locations for performing rituals. The practice continues despite the Ranchi Municipal Corporation’s (RMC) explicit instructions prohibiting such activities. Some people are also allegedly charging devotees between Rs 500 and Rs 1,500 for occupying these spots.
The growing practice of claiming and selling spaces at public ghats has raised concerns among devotees, particularly those who cannot afford to pay for a preferred location. Families seeking convenient spots to offer prayers during the festival may have to face additional expenses, while financially weaker devotees risk being deprived of suitable spaces. There are around 72 Chhath ghats across the city.
Expressing concern over the situation, devotee Shashi Jha said, “Chhath Puja is meant to be a festival where the Sun treats everyone as equals. However, the riverbanks have turned into a crowded marketplace. Because prayer spots are now being commercialised and sold to those who can pay the most, poor people are being pushed away.”
The unauthorised practice has continued despite Municipal Commissioner Sushant Gaurav’s warning during his inspection of major Chhath ghats. He had instructed officials to stop illegal booking and occupation of spaces, emphasising that public ghats cannot be controlled or monopolised by individuals.
“No one will be allowed to occupy or block space at the ghats by writing their names and mobile numbers. The ghats are public places and everyone has an equal right to use them. Action will be taken against those found involved in such activities,” the commissioner said.
To curb such violations, the RMC has urged residents to report instances of illegal occupation or attempts to sell spaces at the ghats through its toll-free helpline number, 18005701235.
Alongside monitoring such activities, the civic body has begun reviewing arrangements at major Chhath ghats. Directions have been issued for deploying additional sanitation workers, improving lighting, installing fencing at vulnerable locations and repairing approach roads to facilitate the smooth movement of devotees during the festival.
