Dhubri Introduces Mechanised System for Faster Durga Idol Immersion
Innovative Immersion Process in Dhubri
Approximately 113 idols are anticipated for immersion; the new system aims to complete the process within hours.
Dhubri, Oct 6: In a major advancement towards enhancing the annual Durga idol immersion, the Dhubri Municipal Board is set to implement a mechanised immersion system at Kachari Ghat this year.
Dr. Debamoy Sanyal, the chairman of the Dhubri Municipal Board, mentioned that around 113 Durga idols are expected to undergo immersion in Dhubri this year. Traditionally, these idols are transported in trucks through a procession before reaching the immersion site.
Dr. Sanyal elaborated on the arrangements, stating that the procession is planned to commence from the PWD Point at approximately 11 am, typically arriving at the immersion location by 3 pm, barring any unforeseen issues like vehicle malfunctions or heavy rainfall. The current immersion process can extend until about 11 pm.
The chairman noted that the municipal board has been striving for several years to implement a mechanised system to expedite the immersion process. This initiative gained traction when contractor Dipankar Pal enlisted a team from Kolkata to handle the specialized work.
According to Dr. Sanyal, the team has been diligently working on the project for the last 10-11 months, with completion nearing. He stated that approximately 90-95% of the work is done, and machinery installation is underway, with trial runs anticipated in the coming days.
"If the trials are successful, we could potentially immerse one idol every five to six minutes," Dr. Sanyal remarked, highlighting the efficiency the mechanised system could bring.
Regarding the financial aspect, Dr. Sanyal explained that around Rs 50 lakh has already been allocated for the project, with an additional Rs 40 lakh pending release after completing the necessary documentation. The total expenditure is projected to be around Rs 1 crore, which also encompasses related works and reconstruction activities near Netai Dhubuni Ghat and the area surrounding the statue of Shaheed Kushal Konwar.
Dr. Sanyal assured that comprehensive security measures would be in place during the immersion, with support from police and emergency services.
A dedicated structure has been constructed at the immersion site, allowing four to five personnel to be stationed there. This facility will enable police and SDRF personnel to oversee the immersion process and intervene as necessary.
"Police support is consistently present throughout the immersion procession each year, and we anticipate the same level of assistance this time," he added, noting that the municipal board is collaborating with law enforcement to ensure the event runs smoothly.
With the introduction of this mechanised system for the first time, the Dhubri Municipal Board aims to significantly shorten the idol immersion duration, alleviating pressure on the administration, puja committees, and devotees during Bijoya Dashami.