Preparations for Bisket Jatra underway in Bhaktapur

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Apr. 6: Preparations are going on in full swing for the celebration of Biska (Bisket) Jatra which is observed for eight nights and nine days. 

Biska Jatra will kick off on April 9 by pulling the chariots of Bhairavnath and Bhadrakali. 

Construction of the chariots of Bhairavanath and Bhadrakali, which are essential for the Jatra, began on the premises of the five-storey temple of Taumadi, in Bhaktapur on March 28.

Works to prepare timber of different sizes required to build the chariots began three months ago, said Khima Oli, Head of the Guthi Sansthan, Bhaktapur. 

Oli said that among the two chariots, the work of building the chariot of Bhadrakali started Wednesday while the chariot of Bhairavanath is almost ready, only the work to roof it is left. 

“Repairing the wheels and the damaged part of the chariots is going on in full swing. 

The construction and painting of pagoda-style chariots will be completed by April 9,” she said. 

The Bhairavanath chariot will be taller and bigger than the Bhadrakali chariot.

Almost Rs. 4 million is allocated for the Biska: Jatra this year, and everything including the puja expenses, construction of chariots and purchase of ropes should be managed from the amount.  

"The Metropolitan Police Range, District Administration Office, Bhaktapur Municipality, public representatives, festival operators, local clubs and stakeholders are constantly coordinating for the systematic operation of the festival," said Oli.

Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police Range has decided to completely shut the liquor shops during the chariot procession period. 

The CCTV cameras have been installed along the main roads and intersections where the chariots are pulled. 

Arrangements have also been made to manage the cables, wires and fibre net cables along the routes through which the chariots pass through in the city. 

Likewise, ambulances, fire engines and disaster preparedness equipment will be kept ready in all the hospitals of the city under the sponsorship of Nepal Red Cross Society, Bhaktapur. The Nepal Scouts will mobilise volunteers in the crowded areas on April 12, April 13, and April 17.