Nabin inaugurates 11-km Chhath Ghat

New Delhi: In a major push to strengthen religious infrastructure and recognise the cultural identity of the Purvanchal community, Delhi has transformed an approximately 11-km stretch of the Munak Canal into a sprawling Chhath Puja destination. The stretch, which was earlier surrounded by garbage, construction waste and overgrown bushes, has been redeveloped with dedicated ghats and facilities for devotees.

BJP national president Nitin Nabin and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta jointly inaugurated the project on Thursday in the presence of Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Verma, Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra, several MLAs and other BJP leaders. Developed at an estimated cost of Rs 115 crore, the project aims to combine religious significance, cultural recognition and improved public amenities. The canal area has undergone extensive cleaning, while permanent steps, roads and other essential facilities have been developed along both banks to accommodate devotees during Chhath celebrations. The broader development plan also includes attractive fountains, lighting arrangements and landscaped parks, turning the previously neglected stretch into a major public and religious space.

CM Rekha Gupta said the project fulfilled a commitment made to the Purvanchal community, which had long sought a dedicated location to celebrate Chhath Puja and offer Arghya to the Sun God.

She said the government had undertaken the redevelopment to transform the neglected canal stretch into a centre of faith and public convenience. Gupta added that she had personally inspected the site several times and maintained regular coordination with officials to ensure that the project progressed on schedule.