By Our Correspondent, Devghat, Jan. 14: Fest on the occasion of Maghe Sakranti has begun in Devghat, located at the border of Chitwan, Tanahun and Nawalpur from today. The fest is held every year on the first day of Magh month.

Devotees from all over the country visit Devghat to take a dip in the holy river confluence of Kaligandaki River, originating from Damodar Kunda and Trishuli River, originating from Gosainkunda.

The fest was inaugurated toady by installing a bamboo pole with a prayer flag with 'Omkar' written on it, at the confluence of Kaligandaki and Trishuli River in Devghat Rural Municipality-5.

Gyannanda Saraswoti Maharaj, supreme of Harihar Sanyash Aashram, inagurated the festival.

"Around 500,000 pilgrims are expected to participate in the fest this year," said Shivaraj Poudel, Chairman of Devghat Area Development Committee.

Poudel said that they had managed a favorable enviornment for the devotees to take bath in the river.

Committee's director, Dhiren Babu Ghimire, said, "We have coordinated with security authorities of Tanahun, Chitwan and Nawalpur districts, government, private sectors and other stakeholders for the management of the festival."

A main committee under the coordination of chair Poudel and other 22 committess have been formed to make the fest successful.

More than 500 police and army personnels have been deployed in the area to ensure safety and security of the visitors.

Ghimire said that alcohol was banned in Devghat area until completion of the fest.

Also, 40 boats have been operating to transport the devotees coming from Chitwan.

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