JANAKPUR: With the conclusion of Tihar, preparations have begun across the Tarai-Madhes region for Chhath — one of the country’s major festivals.

Ponds, rivers, and lakes in the Mithila region have started being cleaned and decorated for the festival, which is dedicated to Sun God and Chhathi Goddess.

As the rituals are performed in water, local authorities and volunteers are busy cleaning water bodies, constructing ghats, filling potholes, and repairing roads.

Chhath is regarded as a festival of devotion and purity in the Mithila region.

Locals begin preparations a week in advance as the festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm.