Patna, Dec. 24: Gandhi Maidan would not be let out for commercial purposes from the New Year till Republic Day.

A decision to this effect was taken during a high level meeting chaired by Patna divisional commissioner Anand Kishore on Wednesday.

Kishore directed officials concerned of the building construction department to complete the barricading work by January 20. The direction also includes filling up potholes by January 10.

Kishore said: "I have asked the officials to complete all necessary works at the Maidan and prepare it for the Republic Day celebration. I have also instructed them to complete work on the entrance gate by January 7 and ensure that dogs, pigs and cattle are kept away from the Maidan premises."

The instruction also includes that all workers engaged in the preparation work must have identity cards.

The first rehearsal of the parade will take place on January 11 while the last one would be held on January 24.

Kishore also asked superintendent of police (traffic) P.K. Das to make proper arrangements and advertise them accordingly to help the residents. Patna district magistrate Sanjay Kumar Agarwal and senior superintendent of police Manu Maharaj accompanied Kishore.