# Durga Puja administrative and environmental regulations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/durga-puja-administrative-and-environmental-regulations
> Updated: 2026-10-17T15:54:54.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 2.

Administrative and community guidelines for Durga Puja celebrations have been implemented in Shillong and Dimapur to address public order and environmental concerns.

In Shillong, the East Khasi Hills district administration announced that Durga Puja pandals will be prohibited from blocking Public Works Department (PWD) roads starting next year. This decision follows objections from groups like the Khasi Students' Union regarding traffic congestion. For the current year, authorities have implemented measures to minimize disruption, such as modifying specific pandal locations and deploying extra police personnel.

In Dimapur, the Hindu Seva Samiti issued guidelines for committees to ensure celebrations are safe and environmentally friendly. These directives include using biodegradable materials and straw-structured idols to protect the Dhansiri River. Additionally, guidelines discourage loudspeaker use near hospitals and require audio to cease by 10 pm. Local traders in Dimapur have reported a decline in commercial activity and customer turnout compared to previous years.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-17: Dimapur Durga Puja celebrations see subdued business and new guidelines

Durga Puja celebrations in Dimapur face subdued business activity and lower retail footfall, while the Hindu Seva Samiti has issued environmental and security guidelines for the festival.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dimapur-durga-puja-celebrations-see-subdued-business-and-new-guidelines

### 2026-10-14: Shillong administration bans Durga Puja pandals on PWD roads from next year

Shillong authorities have announced that Durga Puja pandals will be prohibited from blocking PWD roads starting next year to alleviate traffic congestion and public inconvenience.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shillong-administration-bans-durga-puja-pandals-on-pwd-roads-from-next-year

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Cite as: Durga Puja administrative and environmental regulations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/durga-puja-administrative-and-environmental-regulations
