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Amidst the grand culmination of the 10-day festival celebrating Lord Ganesh's presence, Mumbai and Pune are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and smoothness of the immersion processions.
In the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, a staggering force of over 19,000 dedicated police personnel has been strategically stationed to oversee the proceedings, preventing any untoward incidents during the grand finale on 'Anant Chaturdashi.' This last day of the festival is a spectacle in itself, with throngs of people lining the streets to bid a fond farewell to Lord Ganesh, PTI reported.
Safety remains paramount, and citizens have been advised to refrain from venturing into the sea during the immersion, seeking assistance from trained professionals instead. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a comprehensive safety initiative, posting 1,337 lifeguards at various natural water bodies and artificial ponds, with 53 motorboats primed for action.
Remarkably, the observance of Eid-e-Milad processions by various Muslim organizations and religious leaders has been rescheduled to Friday, out of respect for Anant Chaturdashi, following an appeal from the police.
In Mumbai, the security detail is nothing short of impressive, comprising a diverse team of 16,250 constables, 2,866 officers, and various senior officers. Additionally, 35 platoons of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), a contingent from the Rapid Action Force, Quick Response Teams (QRTs), and vigilant home guards will be strategically positioned at vital locations throughout the city.
The immersion of thousands of household and public Ganesh idols at 73 designated locations, including iconic beaches like Girgaon, Dadar, Juhu, Marve, and Aksa, will be closely monitored via a network of CCTV cameras. To maintain order incognito, plain-clothed policemen will blend seamlessly into the crowds.
Multiple control rooms have been established to supervise the immersion processions, and 10,000 civic employees will be on duty. A total of 250 control rooms, with 72 at natural water bodies and 178 at artificial ponds, have been established to monitor the immersion of Ganesh idols.
To ensure that the vehicles transporting idols do not get stranded in the sand, the BMC has thoughtfully placed 468 steel plates at various seafronts. For the immersion of larger idols, 46 German rafts have been procured.
Safety measures extend to the deployment of 242 inspection towers at natural water bodies and artificial points, as well as fire-fighting vehicles and skilled personnel at immersion spots. Furthermore, 96 ambulances will be on standby at these locations.
To enhance the experience, 68 welcome posts have been set up at various immersion sites, along with 75 first-aid centers and 61 mobile clinics. Illuminating the proceedings are 1,083 floodlights and 27 searchlights, a collaborative effort with the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST).
For the convenience of participants, changing rooms and 150 "Nirmalya Kalash" have been thoughtfully provided at various locations.
Pune, no less diligent, has deployed a considerable police presence along with Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads, QRTs, and canine units. With 3,865 Ganesh mandals and a staggering 6,14,257 idols of Lord Ganesh in households, Pune is alive with the spirit of the festival.
