Delhi deploys over 5,000 police for Chhath Puja as 1,400 ghats prepare for devotees

Delhi Police have deployed more than 5,000 personnel for Chhath Puja, the Hindu sun festival held on November 15 and 16, stepping up security and traffic management around Yamuna ghats and in the crowded east, northeast and Shahdara districts.

Focus on the three eastern districts

Police said security arrangements will be strengthened particularly around Yamuna ghats, ponds and venues where large gatherings are expected, with special attention on the east, northeast and Shahdara districts. All district deputy commissioners of police have met Chhath Puja organisers and local committee members to discuss security and crowd management. Patrols will be carried out on foot, in PCR cars and on motorbikes, covering major ghats, markets and roads leading to the venues. Delhi Traffic Police have announced diversions for November 15 and 16 and identified 13 parking locations for devotees.

1,400 ghats ready; chief minister to visit

More than 1,400 Chhath ghats have been prepared across the capital. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is scheduled to visit two major ghats on Sunday and Monday, according to the Chief Minister's Office. The festival began on Friday with Nahay Khay, followed by Kharna on Saturday; the sunset offering (Sandhya Arghya) takes place on Sunday evening at around 5:27 p.m., with the sunrise offering on Monday morning at around 6:44 a.m.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Niharika Bhatt said the North District is deploying 1,000 to 1,200 of its own personnel along with 2,500 personnel from outside forces, and setting up watchtowers at the ghats to monitor crowds from above. She said an estimated 100,000 to 125,000 people could gather at Shyam Ghat alone during peak hours.

(Sources: Business Standard; ANI, Nov. 14-15, 2026.)