Mumbai Celebrates Ganesh Festival with Over 19,000 Idols Immersed on Final Day

In Mumbai, over 19,000 Ganesh idols were immersed as devotees across Maharashtra bid farewell to the elephant-headed deity. The immersion marked the end of the state's cherished festival. Despite the large gatherings, no major incidents were reported. Processions from various Ganapati Mandals made their way to the seashore or lakes, accompanied by lively dancing, red gulal powder, and the rhythmic beats of dhol-tasha drums.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported that by 6 pm, more than 19,000 idols had been immersed in the sea, lakes, and artificial ponds. Among these, 17,996 were household Ganeshas, 1,053 belonged to Sarvajanik Mandals, and 127 were Goddess Gauri idols. Artificial ponds saw the immersion of 7,570 idols, including 182 Sarvajanik Ganapati idols.

Security Measures and Crowd Management

To ensure safety during the festivities, more than 24,000 police personnel were deployed for security and crowd control. The BMC also stationed over 12,000 employees and established 71 control rooms to manage the processions effectively. Additionally, 761 lifeguards and 48 speed boats were positioned at beaches as a precautionary measure.

Police utilised drones for surveillance at key immersion sites such as Girgaon, Dadar, Bandra, Juhu Versova, Madh Island beaches, and Powai lake. They monitored footage from 8,000 CCTV cameras. The State Reserve Police Force, Quick Response Teams, Riot Control Police, Home Guards, and Maharashtra Security Force were also involved in maintaining order.

Transportation and Safety Precautions

Western Railway and Central Railway operated special late-night trains to facilitate devotees returning home after processions. More than 2,500 traffic police personnel ensured smooth vehicle movement across the city. Some roads were closed to manage traffic flow effectively.

The BMC provided 204 artificial ponds to prevent pollution of natural water bodies. Citizens were advised against entering deep waters and cautioned about blue button jellyfish and stingrays during sea immersions.

Notable Processions and Government Participation

The procession of Lalbaugcha Raja Ganesh attracted lakhs of devotees during the 11-day festival. It reached Khatav Mill in Byculla around 11 pm on its way to Girgaon chowpatty beach for immersion the next morning. Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis showered flowers on Ganapati processions at Girgaon chowpatty late in the evening.

Chief Minister Shinde mentioned that women's joy has doubled this year due to his government's Ladki Bahin scheme. Under this initiative, eligible women receive Rs 1500 monthly.

The immersion activities took place at various locations including Girgaon, Dadar, Juhu, Marve, and Aksa beaches in Mumbai. The arrangements ensured a smooth conclusion to the festival while prioritising environmental protection and public safety.