GYALSHING: The first preparatory meeting for the annual holy festival of Bumchu at Tashiding Monastery was convened on March 1 at the conference hall of the District Administrative Centre,Gyalshing.
The meeting was chaired by Tenzing D Denzongpa District Collector (DC) Gyalshing, and attended by district officials, and representatives of Tashiding monastery.
The discussions focused on essential preparations for the festival, with specific responsibilities allocated to various departments.
The District Collector assured full administrative support to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
At the outset, the general secretary of the Organizing Committee provided an overview of the history and significance of the festival, emphasizing the large number of devotees attending each year and highlighting priority areas requiring departmental intervention. Similarly, the president of the Committee outlined key issues that need to be addressed for the convenience of devotees.
Regarding security and law enforcement, the Additional SP discussed the deployment of forces to manage traffic congestion, safeguard critical areas and maintain law and order during the festival.
On health and hygiene, CMO Dr. Bikash Pradhan stressed the importance of cleanliness and hygiene to prevent food poisoning and waterborne diseases, recommending that devotees use properly boiled water.
Emphasizing sustainability, DC directed the BDO (Chongrang) and concerned Zilla and Gram Panchayats to sensitize stall operators about hygiene, cleanliness and a zero-waste policy. The use and sale of plastic items within the festival premises will be strictly prohibited. Furthermore, departments such as Roads, PHE, and Power were instructed to extend full cooperation and necessary support.
Additionally, the Panchayat President of Tashiding GPU raised concerns about garbage disposal during and after the festival. He proposed a garbage management plan to ensure proper waste collection and disposal, minimizing environmental impact and maintaining cleanliness throughout the celebration.
As part of the preparatory measures, a joint spot verification and follow-up meeting have been scheduled at Tashiding Monastery on March 10.
It is pertinent to mention that the Bumchu festival will take place from midnight on March 13 to March 14, 2025.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders, followed by a formal vote of thanks to the chair.
- IPR Report
