Ayodhya authorities launch clean-up drive along Saryu River after Deepotsav
More than 30 lakh earthen lamps were lit across 56 ghats during the 10th edition of the festival on Saturday.
Authorities in Ayodhya launched an extensive cleanliness drive along the banks of the Saryu River on Sunday morning, according to ANI. The drive follows the conclusion of the 10th edition of Deepotsav, which took place on Saturday.
The clean-up aims to remove used diyas, wicks, and other waste materials to restore the ghats ahead of Diwali. On Sunday, devotees gathered at Saryu Ghat to offer prayers and take a holy dip following the Maha Aarti.
During the celebrations on Saturday, more than 30 lakh diyas illuminated 56 ghats along the riverbanks. An additional one lakh diyas lit the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple premises, supported by over 35,000 volunteers.
The event featured a 2,100-drone show depicting scenes from the Ramayana and a procession with 21 tableaux. Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath attended the festivities.
District Magistrate Pulkit Garg said that more than 1,800 workers have been deployed for cleaning at all locations. He added that police have been deployed at traffic points and night shelters have been set up.
The Diwali festival continues with Lakshmi Puja on November 8, followed by Govardhan Puja on November 10 and Bhai Dooj on November 11.