Kolkata: The state govt will not allow Chhath Puja devotees to observe the ritual inside Rabindra and Subhas Sarobar unless it gets a green signal from National Green Tribunal (NGT).State urban development and municipal affairs minister Agnimitra Paul on Friday held a special preparatory meeting with department officials to discuss protecting the environment, biodiversity and cleanliness of the water bodies along with the safety of the devotees and overall management of Rabindra Sarobar and Subhas Sarobar if Chhath is allowed to be performed in the lakes.When TOI on Friday contacted the minister on whether Chhath will be allowed at the lakes or not, Paul said that govt was seeking legal advice on the matter. “We are taking legal advice. Until NGT gives permission, it will not be allowed,” Paul said to TOI.Govt officials said that both Rabindra and Subhas sarobar were important water bodies in the city and that equal importance was to be given to preserving the ecological balance of the lakes alongside organising festivals. “Rabindra and Subhas Sarobars are among the most important water bodies in the city. If Chhath is observed there, equal importance has to be given to preserving ecological balance and cleanliness of the lakes,” said an official.Paul had made headlines on Wednesday after saying that the state govt was considering allowing Chhath devotees to observe the ritual at Rabindra Sarobar. Paul had said that it was CM Suvendu Adhikari’s wish to allow Chhath at the lake, taking proper precautionary measures to keep the lake clean. However, in the evening, the minister said that the authorities were keeping alternative arrangements ready if they do not obtain the necessary permission for observing Chhath in the lakes.“The protection of the biodiversity and environment of Rabindra Sarobar is of utmost importance to us. If necessary permissions are not obtained there, adequate arrangements for Chhath Puja will be made at designated ghats in south Kolkata, including Jodhpur Park, as alternatives. Our objective is to arrange adequate and safe ghats for the devotees of Chhath Puja while simultaneously keeping the ecological balance and natural resources protected,” Paul had posted on social media last Wednesday evening.“As per the Supreme Court order dated Nov 19, 2020, Chhath or any social event cannot take place in Rabindra Sarobar confirming the order of NGT dated Nov 15, 2017. It is surprising that the state government was considering to undo the apex court order,” said Omprakash Jhunjhunwala of Concern for Calcutta, an NGO.
