Guwahati, Oct. 17: Assam’s capital city was aglow with the light and sound of celebrations this evening, as Diwali fervour gripped the populace.

The city wore a festive look with traditional lamps and decorative lights illuminating every nook and corner. Residential buildings as well as those of government departments and commercial organisations were illuminated.

Both young and old were seen flocking to the Kali temples in the morning, while in the evening, they were busy lighting earthen lamps and decorating their houses with rangolis.

The shopping malls, restaurants and hotels organised various colourful functions to celebrate the festival in a grand manner.

Apart from various colourful events, there were special fireworks by artistes from Barpeta and a drama performance by the Sarbajanin Kali Puja Committee at Maligaon and Dynamo Club at Ulubari from till late at night.

A large number of people visited these places and thoroughly enjoyed the festival.

The firecracker stalls witnessed a huge rush, especially in areas like Fancy Bazar, Panbazar and Ganeshguri.

Governor Syed Sibtey Razi conveyed Diwali wishes to the people and said the festival would dispel all sorts of darkness from the state.

Chief minister Tarun Gogoi also wished the people of Assam on the occasion of Diwali and Kati Bihu.

Kati Bihu will be observed in the state tomorrow and earthen lamps will be lit among the paddy fields.

Gogoi said the festivals would strengthen the bond of brotherhood and amity among all sections of the populace.

While city police have intensified security in and around the city to prevent any untoward incident during the festival, the metro district administration took steps to check the bursting of fire crackers on busy roads and footpaths across the city.

“The serial blasts rocked the state last year soon after Diwali. So we are not taking any chances this time as antisocial elements might to try to repeat such subversive activities,” a police official said.

The Gauhati Medical College and Hospital authorities have made arrangements in the emergency department to meet any eventuality or treat patients suffering from burn injuries during the celebration.

The Pollution Control Board, Assam is keeping a close watch on sound and air pollution. A PCBA official today said the board would monitor ambient air quality and noise level before and during the festival. The Regional Meteorological Centre at Borjhar had predicted sunny skies during the festival. “The temperature level during the day will remain within bearable limits. Even though the sky may be partially cloudy, there is no chance of rain,” an official said.