The district administration in Chatra has imposed a strict ban on the use of soaps, shampoos, and detergents by visitors bathing in the revered Balbal hot spring. This decisive action aims to halt environmental degradation and safeguard the purity of the water at this historically significant site.
Protecting a Sacred and Therapeutic Site
Officials announced the ban on Monday, highlighting concerns over water impurity. The order was formally notified by Simaria sub-divisional officer (SDO) Sunny Rak, who acted on directives from the state tourism directorate. The hot spring, located within the premises of the Bageshwari temple in Gidhaur block, is renowned for its religious and medicinal importance.
The administration's notification explains that the spring's water contains oxygen and sulphur, elements responsible for its therapeutic properties. The use of chemical products like soap and shampoo was found to be damaging these natural elements and compromising the water's purity.
High Footfall During Annual Fair
The timing of the ban is crucial, as it precedes a major annual event that draws large crowds. Every year, a 15-day cattle fair commences at Balbal Dham from Makar Sankranti, attracting traders and buyers from across Jharkhand and various parts of the country.
"The move was necessary to ensure the purity of the hot spring," said SDO Sunny Rak. He noted that footfall rises significantly during this period as devotees and villagers take ritualistic baths in the spring's waters.
A Shrine Steeped in History
The site holds deep historical and spiritual significance. Chief priest Pramod Pandey shared that the shrine's origins date back to 1857. It was constructed a year after idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were unearthed during an excavation. The first temple was built in that same year, while the Durga temple within the complex was added later in 1990.
Due to its reputation, the temple and its hot spring attract devotees not just locally, but from states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal throughout the year. The new regulations seek to preserve this unique heritage site for future generations by preventing chemical pollution of its natural waters.
