The Telangana government is making elaborate arrangements, including enhanced security measures, for the immersion of thousands of Lord Ganesh idols in various water bodies following the conclusion of the nine-day Ganesh Chaturthi festivities. The main immersion event will take place on September 17 in Hyderabad and other locations across the state.
Festive Atmosphere Grips the State
With the immersion process already underway, a festive atmosphere has enveloped Hyderabad and other towns and villages. The Ganesh pandal at Khairatabad, known for its gigantic idol, has attracted thousands of devotees. This year, a 70 ft tall statue was installed, drawing significant crowds.
Processions and Community Participation
Organizers of Ganesh pandals have begun the immersion process, taking out processions with idols of Lord Vinayaka in various sizes and forms. The processions feature devotees dancing to religious songs and drum beats. Notably, TV channels have shown instances of Muslims joining the festivities at some pandals in the city, highlighting communal harmony.
Enhanced Public Transport and Safety Measures
Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Commissioner Vijayalakshmi R Gadwal traveled via Hyderabad metro rail to assess the frequency of trains and extended train timings for September 17 to accommodate the large number of devotees.
Hyderabad City Police have intensified their preparations, as events marking the anniversary of the merger of the erstwhile princely state of Hyderabad under Nizam's rule will also be organized on September 17. Additionally, Milad Un Nabi festivities begin on Sunday night, adding to the city's celebrations.
Police Preparations
Hyderabad City Police Commissioner C V Anand held a video conference with all zonal DCPs, SHOs, and the patrol and Blue Colts staff. During the briefing, Anand outlined the challenges ahead and emphasized the need for comprehensive bandobust (security) plans.
Inspections and Reviews
State DGP Jitender, Hyderabad Commissioner of Police C V Anand, Rachakonda Commissioner of Police Sudheer Babu, and GHMC Commissioner Amrapali Kata visited the revered Balapur Ganesha pandal and other key idols on Saturday. They inspected the immersion routes and reviewed safety and security measures to ensure a smooth and secure procession for all devotees.
Despite authorities initially refusing permission, the leaders of the Ganesh Utsav Samiti performed the Ganesh immersion at Tank Bund.
This article was created from an automated news agency feed and has been edited for clarity and length.