Mumbai: BMC gears up for Ganesh idol immersions on Anant Chaturdashi

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As the auspicious occasion of Ganeshotsav unfolds in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has began preparations for the upcoming immersion of Lord Ganesha idols on Thursday, September 28, also known as Anant Chaturdashi.

According to the BMC, under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Iqbal Singh Chahal, along with the leadership of Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs) Ashwini Bhide, the BMC has mobilized approximately 10,000 employees and established a robust infrastructure, including 71 control rooms, to ensure the smooth conduct of the immersion process.

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This year, a total of 198 artificial immersion sites, complemented by 69 natural immersion points, have been set up across the city, as shared by Deputy Commissioner (zone 2) and Ganeshotsav Coordinator Ramakant Biradar.

The BMC's comprehensive preparations span over the past two months, with 468 steel plates strategically placed along the banks of Chowpatty and 46 German rafts deployed at various locations to facilitate the immersion of smaller Ganesha idols, thus preventing vehicles from getting stuck in the sand on the Chowpatty shore.

For security and safety, 48 motorboats with 764 lifeguards have been stationed at Chowpatty, ensuring the well-being of devotees during the process. Furthermore, 282 vehicles, including 150 Nirmalya urns, have been arranged to collect offerings from devotees before immersion.

To maintain seamless coordination among different departments, the BMC has activated 188 control rooms at the administrative level, in addition to the main control room. As part of security measures, 60 observation towers and 68 reception rooms have been set up at various key locations.

For healthcare support, 61 ambulances and 75 first-aid centers have been placed at strategic points across the city. The BMC has also taken steps to ensure adequate lighting, with approximately 1,083 floodlights and 27 searchlights installed on poles and high places in collaboration with 'BEST'.

To enhance convenience, 121 mobile toilets have been positioned for the use of citizens participating in the immersion festivities. Additionally, the Municipal Corporation has deployed trained personnel and well-equipped fire brigade vehicles to handle any emergency situations that may arise.

In an effort to streamline the immersion process and reduce crowding at the site, the BMC has introduced an online registration facility on their website (https://portal.mcgm.gov.in) for devotees to schedule their idol immersion times. The MyBMC WhatsApp Chatbot (MyBMC WhatsApp Chatbot) at number 8999-22-8999 offers a feature to locate the nearest Ganesha Mandal and Murti Visarjansthal (idol immersion site).

The municipal administration has appealed to citizens to maintain purity and follow guidelines during the immersion process. Safety precautions include not venturing into deep sea waters, seeking assistance from trained personnel for idol immersion, avoiding dark or prohibited areas for immersion, and promptly reporting any emergencies or drownings to authorities.

On Anant Chaturdashi, when high and low tides are anticipated, extra caution is advised. The BMC has shared tide information for September 28, 2023, indicating high tides at 11 am and 11:24 pm, and a low tide at 5:08 pm. Citizens are urged to be vigilant during these tidal shifts.

Additionally, residents are encouraged to take precautions against fish bites, especially due to the presence of 'Blue Button Jellyfish' and 'Sting Ray' species along the Mumbai coastline from August to October. The BMC has established medical facilities and one 108 ambulance is on standby in the Chowpatty area to address any fish bite incidents.

-The 'Sting Ray' sting can cause a burning sensation, while 'Jellyfish' stings are intensely itchy.

- In case of 'Sting Ray' or 'Jellyfish' bites, citizens are advised not to panic and seek immediate first aid assistance.

- Removing the stinging tentacles carefully and avoiding further irritation is crucial.

- Clean the wound with fresh water, apply ice, and seek medical attention.