Let’s be mindful while we celebrate festivals

Representation pic

The festival season is well and truly upon us, with Ganesh Chaturthi and the Mount Mary fair only days away, followed by a slew of celebrations.

Every festive occasion may see the mandals and pandals, building of some infra necessary to the celebration.

All the infra must be extremely safe and people built in safety and be able to negotiate this without a worry. Every stall must be properly erected for a fair for instance, within the marked zone and absolutely secure for devotees. Enough space must be left for people to walk and where allowed, vehicles to go through.

Mandals, must be made keeping safety uppermost. Proper handling and securing of bamboos/rods for shelters or shamianas is vital.

Stage/dais has to be very strong able to sustain the weight of numerous people so that there is no danger of a sudden caving in, with resultant injuries, some can be very grievous.

While the monsoon may have petered out, we have to always be prepared in any case, for gusty winds and a sudden shower or two - build the infra with this in mind.

Keep at least one pathway clear, just in case there is any need for an emergency evacuation and a vehicle is needed at very short notice. Keep some access/exit for contingency measures.

Have your premises well-lit, so that there is good visibility as the sun slips away and we move into twilight and darkness. Clear signage, explaining the path, different amenities, and way to exits is of utmost importance. Like this edit space has highlighted in the past, confusion is dangerous, clarity spells safety. A quality announcement system iss of great value. Happy and safe whatever you may be celebrating.