Jute carpets, health kiosks for Tarakeswar pilgrims
Times of India | 3 July 2026
Kolkata: The state govt is making elaborate arrangements for the upcoming Shrabani Mela at Tarakeswar, including laying jute carpets along the 35-km route from Seoraphuli to the temple to help barefoot pilgrims.
The carpets will be sprinkled with water to keep them cool and protect devotees carrying holy water from Nimai Tirtha Ghat from injuries caused by uneven roads and scorching heat.
State urban development and municipal affairs minister Agnimitra Paul said the state cabinet reviewed the preparations on Thursday. She said this year’s mela would feature rest shelters, toilets and health kiosks with doctors at regular intervals to assist pilgrims suffering from exhaustion.
CM Suvendu Adhikari has also directed officials to ensure adequate lighting along the route and at the ghats, while senior administrative officers will be deployed to manage traffic and crowd movement.
Iconic Chandernagore lighting will illuminate key stretches. “The ghats are already being cleaned and decked up for the Shrabani Mela. The PWD, UD&MA, and the Information & Cultural Affairs department are collaborating to beautify the ghats and set up rest facilities. Cultural programmes will also be organised for the pilgrims,” Paul said.
She added that buses and other transport vehicles would also be decorated to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Adhikari has also expressed intent to extend financial aid to Rath Yatra celebrations that have run for decades, particularly those with chariots in urgent need of repair, following appeals from various organisers. Notably, the CM has been invited to attend the historic Mahesh Rath Yatra in Serampore on July 16.