Ganeshotsav 2024: The BMC’s List Of 12 Bridges To Avoid – What Is Behind The Decision?

Published: Tuesday, September 3, 2024, 12:21 [IST]

As Ganeshotsav approaches, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued an important advisory for devotees. The BMC is advising people not to gather on twelve key bridges in Mumbai while transporting Ganesh idols during the festival.

The advisory specifically targets bridges located between Dadar and Churchgate, as well as CSMT in South Mumbai. This marks the fifth consecutive year since 2019 when the BMC has highlighted these bridges to manage the risk of overcrowding. Previously, 13 bridges were listed, but this year, one bridge in Ghatkopar is undergoing repairs and has been removed from the list.

Ganeshotsav 2024 The BMC s List Of 12 Bridges To Avoid

BMC officials state that these bridges can support a maximum weight of 16 tonnes. To prevent potential damage, the authorities have also requested that heavy bass music not be played on these bridges to avoid vibrations that could stress the structures.

Although the bridges are not in a dilapidated condition, the BMC has expressed concern about the significant stress that can be placed on them by trucks carrying idols and the large processions associated with the festival. Many of these bridges are nearly a century old, and to ensure their safety, it is crucial for devotees to avoid overcrowding and adhere to the weight limit.

The Ganeshotsav festival will begin on 7 September, with preparations starting in the first week of the month as various mandals begin transporting idols. Many of these key bridges are situated in South and Central Mumbai, areas that are central to Sarvajanik Ganesh Mandals and attract devotees from across the state and country. Central Mumbai also houses workshops where mandals are made, further increasing the flow of processions.