Canal banks still cluttered as post-Chhath Puja celebrations clean-up moves slowly

Days after the Chhath Puja celebrations concluded, the clean-up efforts have begun along various stretches of the Sidhwan Canal. But the work is far from complete. While areas near Gill Road and Sarabha Nagar have been cleared of ritual waste, other stretches, especially near Ayali Kalan and Pakhowal Road still bear the remnants of the festivities.

Banana leaves, disposable plates, leftover food and puja materials continue to litter canal banks. In several spots, diyas and plastic packaging remain scattered, painting a picture of neglect after devotion.

“The rituals were performed with fervour but the aftermath is troubling,” said Neha Sharma, a resident of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar.

“The canal near our area is still covered with waste. The clean-up has started but it’s slow and uneven,” she said.

Organising committees have taken the lead in initiating the clean-up, deploying volunteers and coordinating with sanitation workers. “We began the process the very next morning,” said Mukesh Kumar, a member of one of the Chhath Puja committees.

“Our volunteers collected biodegradable offerings but managing plastic and synthetic waste requires municipal support,” he said.

The Irrigation Department, which oversees canal maintenance, acknowledged gaps and assured full restoration soon.

“The process to clean the major stretches have begun and expectantly, the remaining areas will be cleaned by the weekend. Notices are being sent to the organising committees. Coordination with local organisers has helped but some areas need more attention,” said Aakash Aggarwal, Executive Engineer of the department.

Environmentalists have raised concerns about the long-term impact of ritual waste on water bodies. “While biodegradable items such as banana leaves and diyas are part of tradition, use of plastic plates and synthetic decorative items is harmful,” said Dr Meenakshi Verma.

“It’s disheartening to see the canal side littered with puja waste. Water should offer a refreshing sight but instead, it presents a picture of neglect and indifference,” said Anjali Sabharwal, a local resident who visits the canal daily for morning walk.

Senior citizens, who have witnessed the Chhath celebrations evolve over decades, say the spirit of the festival must be matched with civic responsibility. “Earlier, we used to clean up ourselves after rituals,” said Ram Prasad, a 70-year-old devotee.

“Now, it has been left to the authorities, that’s not the way it should be,” he said. Despite the partial clean-up, canal’s many stretches remain cluttered. Residents and activists are urging the authorities to deploy more manpower and ensure timely waste disposal.