Sun Oct 06 03:28:48 UTC 2024: ## Durga Puja Festivities in Assam Amidst Rains and Traffic Chaos
**Guwahati, October 4 (HS):** As the Navratri festival begins, Assam, like the rest of India, is abuzz with Durga Puja preparations. Pandal decorations, idols, and processions are in full swing across the state, including the capital Guwahati.
The traditional “Kalash Sthapana” commenced on Thursday, marking the beginning of the nine-day festival. The first day saw the worship of Shailputri, the first form of Goddess Durga. Today, on the second day, the second form, Brahmacharini, is being worshipped. Each day of Navratri will see the worship of a different form of Durga, culminating in the immersion of the idols on Dashami, marking the end of the festival.
The city is being illuminated for the festive occasion with government departments painting footpaths and public walls. Puja committees are also ensuring cleanliness and proper lighting in their areas.
The Guwahati High Court’s ban on lotteries, a common feature during Durga Puja, has brought relief to residents. The state government’s financial support for puja committees has eased their financial burden, allowing for more elaborate celebrations.
Despite the ongoing rains, which have hampered preparations, shoppers are thronging the markets to purchase puja essentials, causing severe traffic congestion in the city. Traffic police are struggling to manage the situation.
**Other News:**
* The Assam Tourism Department and Bodoland Tourism will jointly host the World Tourism Day 2024 on September 27th at Bansbari, Manas National Park, Baksa.
* A young man was arrested in Govardhan, South Kamrup, for possessing illegal drugs worth over ₹10 lakh.
* The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has decided to undertake capacity enhancement works at the Rangapani station under its Katihar division, to improve train efficiency and ease congestion.
* An 18-year-old youth drowned in the Tipujjan area of Golaghat district. His body was recovered today.
First Piper 