GYALSHING: The final preparatory meeting and site visit of the upcoming holy annual Bum Chu event was undertaken at Tashiding Monastery, today led by Tshering T Bhutia Minister -cum-Area MLA Yuksom Tashiding and Tenzing D Denzongpa District Collector Gyalshing.
The meeting was also attended by CS Limboo SDM Yuksom, Sonam Wangdi ASP Gyalshing, KD Bhutia SDPO Gyalshing, Geeta Gurung BDO Chongrang, concerned zilla panchayats, panchayat presidents, concerned officials, members of Tashiding Monastery and other stakeholders.
The primary objective of the meeting and site visit was to assess the final stages of preparation for the Bum Chu festival, which is scheduled for March 13-14, 2025.
Addressing the gathering, MLA TT Bhutia commended the collective efforts of officials and stakeholders in ensuring the success of this sacred festival. He emphasized that their participation is not just an official duty but also an opportunity to receive divine blessings through their dedicated service. He urged everyone to put in their best efforts to ensure that devotees leave not only with the blessings of the holy occasion but also with a deep appreciation for the spiritual and cultural significance of Tashiding.
He stressed that this was an opportunity for Gyalshing district to leave a lasting impression on visitors, showcasing not just the sanctity of Tashiding but the rich heritage of Sikkim as a whole.
He further instructed that the monastery and surrounding areas, including Tashiding town, be well-lit during the festival. He also reviewed the waste management and sanitation plans, urging all involved to work with enthusiasm and diligence.
Highlighting the importance of learning from past experiences, he called for proactive measures to address potential challenges and ensure a seamless experience for devotees. Given the influx of pilgrims from across the country and abroad, he stressed the need for meticulous planning to avoid any inconvenience, urging all stakeholders to make the festival a resounding success.
District Collector Tenzing D Denzongpa, in his address, called for full cooperation from all officials and organisers. While appreciating the progress made so far, he cautioned against complacency, citing examples of unforeseen challenges that have arisen at large public gatherings in other parts of the country. He conducted a comprehensive review of essential arrangements, including electricity, water supply, medical and fire response teams, the public address system, traffic control, crowd management, coupon issuance for devotees, standardized service rates for visitors, waste disposal, and sanitation.
Earlier, General Secretary of Tashiding Monastery, Phurba Tshechutharpa, briefed the Area MLA and the District Collector on the progress made following the directives of the initial preparatory meeting. He provided updates on measures taken for traffic and parking management, water and electricity supply, shuttle services, availability of makeshift tents, and other necessary facilities for devotees. He also advised that visitors be encouraged to wear face masks and carry umbrellas due to the heat during the afternoons. Expressing gratitude on behalf of the monastery, he acknowledged the support of district officials in facilitating a smooth and well-organized festival.
Following the meeting, the team conducted a thorough inspection of the festival site. All arrangements were reviewed, and clear instructions were issued to expedite final preparations, ensuring that no aspect was overlooked in the lead-up to the festival.
- IPR Report
