The East Khasi Hills district administration has said Durga Puja pandals occupying portions of PWD roads will not be allowed in the coming years, citing traffic congestion and public inconvenience.
Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal said the administration had discussed concerns about the RR Colony and Laitumkhrah Road pandals with local dorbars. Since relocating them at this stage would be difficult, this year’s arrangements have been allowed under PWD no-objection certificates, with steps to reduce disruption.
At Laitumkhrah Road, the sector magistrate ensured the pandal stayed beside the drain and did not extend onto the main carriageway.
The RR Colony pandal has traditionally occupied part of the PWD road, requiring traffic diversions on key festival days. Its local dorbar has asked the Puja committee to find another venue for next year.
Police have been directed to deploy sufficient traffic personnel at congestion-prone points and keep diversions as short and limited as possible. Public announcements will be made where diversions are required, especially in RR Colony. The police will also coordinate idol immersion arrangements.
Baranwal said undertakings sought from organisers are standard procedure for events, not a requirement specific to Durga Puja. He said organisers would not automatically be held responsible for incidents beyond their control; responsibility would be determined after an investigation.
The administration will raise the question of additional festival buses with the concerned department, as bus services are outside its control. Its role is to inform the public about traffic conditions, while police will decide when and where to divert vehicles.
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