BJP National President Nitin Nabin to inaugurate the grand ghat on November 12, both banks of the canal being developed into a unique centre of faith, convenience and beauty
Munak Canal gets a major makeover after two decades of neglect, with 1,400 truckloads of debris and waste removed
Steps, paved pathways, changing rooms, toilets, lighting and security arrangements being put in place for devotees, thousands of families across five Assembly constituencies to benefit
Chhath Puja to be held across the entire 11-km stretch this year, the area will continue to be developed as a green and recreational space
New Delhi, November 2026 : Delhi is set to mark a new chapter in the celebration of Chhath Puja, the festival dedicated to Chhathi Maiya, expressing gratitude to nature and rooted in deep public faith. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, the Delhi government has developed a grand Chhath Ghat stretching nearly 11 km along the Munak Canal. Not only will it be the longest Chhath Ghat in the national capital, but it will also be the first of its kind in the country to be developed along a canal. The project will be inaugurated by BJP National President Shri Nitin Nabin on November 12. The event will be held at Labour Chowk near Singalpur village, along the Munak Canal in Shalimar Bagh, in the afternoon. The Chief Minister, Union Minister of State Shri Harsh Malhotra, Cabinet Ministers of the Delhi government and other dignitaries will be present on the occasion.
Special Chhath Ghat developed under the Chief Minister’s supervision
The transformation of the Munak Canal is more than just an infrastructure project. It is an effort to turn a long-neglected stretch into a major centre of faith, cleanliness, greenery and public amenities. The government undertook an extensive cleaning drive to restore the canal, which was once surrounded by garbage, debris and overgrown vegetation. Around 1,400 truckloads of debris, waste and other accumulated filth were removed from this long-neglected stretch. After clearing encroachments along both banks, the government decided to develop the area into a beautiful and well-organised Chhath Ghat. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta personally and regularly monitored the project, visiting the site several times to issue necessary directions to officials.
Paved steps and roads being built on both banks for Chhath devotees
The most striking features of the ghat are its extensive 11-km stretch and planned development. Permanent steps and cemented roads are being constructed along both banks of the canal to ensure that Chhath devotees and visitors can reach the ghats and perform their prayers without difficulty. Changing rooms, toilets, tent arrangements and adequate lighting are also being provided for the convenience of devotees. CCTV cameras are being installed to ensure security. The project also includes benches for visitors, greenery and beautification of the surrounding area.
Arrangements will be made for the flow of clean water through the canal, and fountains will be installed at various locations. These additions will give the entire stretch a new and attractive appearance. Three bridges are also being constructed across the canal to improve movement and connectivity between its two banks. Most of the project work has been completed. This year, arrangements are being made for Chhath Puja across the entire 11-km stretch. The remaining development work, including construction of bridges and greenery-related works, is targeted for completion over the next two to three months.
Thousands of families across five Assembly constituencies to benefit
The Munak Canal area had remained neglected for years. Garbage and construction material dumped into the canal from nearby colonies had led to large accumulations of waste. The stretch had not undergone proper cleaning for nearly two decades. The government decided to revive the canal and has gone beyond developing it merely as a venue for Chhath Puja. Work has also begun to transform it into a major public and recreational space.
The project will directly benefit thousands of families across the Shalimar Bagh, Wazirpur, Model Town, Adarsh Nagar and Badli Assembly constituencies. It will be particularly significant for families from Purvanchal, for whom Chhath holds deep religious, cultural and emotional importance. They will now have access to a large, well-organised venue equipped with better facilities for performing the rituals. Being developed by the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, the complex will eventually serve as an attractive destination for walks, leisure and spending time amidst nature on days other than Chhath as well.
Munak Canal transformed in just one year: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the Munak Canal had been waiting for a transformation for years, and the Delhi government had changed its entire appearance in just one year. An 11-km-long grand Chhath Ghat is being developed along the canal and dedicated to the devotees of Chhathi Maiya. She said the project was not merely about building steps, roads and other facilities, it was also an expression of respect for the faith, traditions and sentiments of lakhs of people from Purvanchal living in Delhi.
“Chhath is a festival that reflects our culture’s gratitude towards nature, the well-being and prosperity of families, and the spirit of public welfare. The tradition of offering arghya to the rising and setting sun reminds us of the importance of maintaining harmony with nature and fostering a sense of togetherness,” she said.
The Chief Minister said the government was committed to providing devotees of Chhathi Maiya with a clean, safe, beautiful and convenient environment so that they could celebrate the festival with complete faith and devotion. She added that the development of Singalpur Road and the revival of the Munak Canal would also expand facilities for thousands of families in the area.
“It is a matter of pride and good fortune for all of us that BJP National President Shri Nitin Nabin will inaugurate these development works on November 12. The Delhi government is committed to respecting the culture, traditions and faith of the people of Purvanchal and connecting the capital’s development with its cultural roots,” she said.
