VINAYAKA CHATURTHI: CONVEYORS TO DOORSTEP COLLECTION, HOW CIVIC BODIES ARE PREPARING FOR GANPATI IDOL IMMERSION | DETAILS
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: As the entire nation celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi today, the administration of Thane and Palghar districts in Maharashtra have introduced several innovative ways, including a conveyor system, to streamline the immersion of Ganesh idols, reports news agency PTI, quoting officials. On Saturday, the ten-day Ganesh festival began.
According to news agency PTI, the Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) in Palghar district has unveiled a new conveyor system designed to expedite the immersion process. Municipal commissioner Anil Pawar is leading this initiative, which allows devotees to place their idols on the conveyor, which then transports them to the immersion site. This system is currently being tested at a single location on an experimental pilot, they said, as reported by news agency PTI.
A mobile immersion facility has been launched by the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), where vehicles will visit localities, allowing residents to perform the immersion ceremony at their doorstep. According to the officials, the initiative has been taken to reducecrowding at traditional immersion spots.
In Thane city, a former BJP corporator has introduced floating platforms with ramps in the Waghbil area. These platforms aim to ease the immersion process, which previously required devotees and officials to navigate marshy terrain.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government has directed the divisional commissioners, district collectors, and police authorities to keep a close vigil for incident-free celebrations across the state. More than 15,000 police personnel have been deployed in Greater Mumbai, while over 6,000 in the adjoining Thane Commissionerate area. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde, after performing a traditional puja of the Ganapati at his official residence Varsha, wished the citizens of Maharashtra and prayed that everyone will get wisdom and the Ganesha brings happiness, contentment, and prosperity.
"Social and religious harmony is the focal point of Maharashtra. Therefore, let's try to further strengthen the love and respect. Every Ganoshotsav brings a new energy, inspiration and enthusiasm. An auspicious and holy atmosphere is created everywhere. Ganeshotsav is a glimpse of the great culture of Maharashtra. The whole world is paying attention to Maharashtra. During this period, not only in Maharashtra but also in the country and abroad, Marathi people are enthusiastic," he said.
"This year, there has been very good rain in all parts of the state, due to which there is enthusiasm among the farmers. In some places, the crops have been damaged due to heavy rains but the government is completely with the farmers' rights. All help will be provided," he assured.
(With input from agencies)