Gaya, August 19: Preparations for the Pitripaksha Mela 2026, renowned worldwide as a ‘moksha sthal,’ have commenced in Gaya. This year, the festival will take place from September 25 to October 10. Anticipating a large influx of devotees from across the country and abroad, the district administration has accelerated its preparations.
On Wednesday, District Magistrate Shashank Shubhankar inspected key sites including the Vaitarni Pond, Brahmasat Vedi, and Akshayvat Vedi. He issued essential directives to officials regarding the convenience, safety, cleanliness, and basic amenities for the pilgrims.
During the inspection, the DM noted the depth of water at Vaitarni Pond and instructed the installation of barricades around the pond at a depth of approximately three feet. He also requested the placement of red flags on the barricades to inform devotees about the water’s depth for their safety. Additionally, he ordered the cleaning of algae from the pond’s steps, ensuring water cleanliness, and repairing broken tiles at the ghat.
The DM emphasized the need for proper arrangements for changing rooms and drinking water at Vaitarni Ghat, along with fixing malfunctioning lights. He also directed that tents and pavilions be erected in vacant areas of the ghat and instructed the municipal commissioner to ensure regular and improved cleanliness across all ghats.
Following this, the District Magistrate inspected the Brahmasat Vedi site. He urged the prompt activation of the dormant light and sound project to educate pilgrims about Gaya’s religious and historical significance, the tradition of Pind Daan, and stories related to Lord Vishnu during the Pitripaksha Mela.
He ensured adequate lighting, electricity, water, toilets, and drinking water facilities at the Sewa Sadan. The DM also called for the repair of broken drain covers around Brahmasat and other Vedi sites and necessary actions to facilitate the movement of pilgrims in waterlogged areas.
During his inspection of the Akshayvat Vedi site, the DM directed the leveling of pathways used by devotees and the repair of broken drain covers. He also requested the painting and thorough cleaning of toilets at the Vedi site. Instructions were given for the removal of silt from Rukmini Pond, ensuring water cleanliness, and maintaining basic sanitation.
For the convenience of pilgrims at the Akshayvat Vedi site, tents and pavilions will be set up, and all necessary facilities including cleanliness, drinking water, uninterrupted electricity supply, lights, and fans will be ensured at the Sewa Sadan.
The District Magistrate clearly instructed officials to complete all preparations in a timely manner before the start of the Pitripaksha Mela. He emphasized that pilgrims arriving from across the country and the world should not face any inconvenience. Safety, cleanliness, drinking water, electricity, lighting, and smooth transportation must be prioritized, with all departments working in coordination.
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