Hyderabad:
Ahead of the Ganesh immersion scheduled for Monday, September 16, the Hyderabad city police and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) have put up signs across Tank Bund that say, “No idol immersion at Tank Bund.” This is in line with the orders from the High Court of Telangana. Iron fences have also been placed to stop people from immersing Ganesh idols in Hussain Sagar Lake.
Officials have installed several banners around the Tank Bund area to inform the public about this ban. However, heavy cranes have been set up on NTR and PVNR Marg Necklace Roads to facilitate idol immersion at these locations.
On Tuesday, the High Court of Telangana said that the guidelines put in place in 2021 should still be followed. According to these guidelines, only clay and eco-friendly Ganesh idols can be immersed in Hussain Sagar. The court has also instructed that idols made from plaster of Paris (PoP) should be immersed in artificial water tanks, which may be set up by the GHMC. These steps are being taken to address environmental concerns about the pollution caused by idol immersion in Hussain Sagar every year.
Every year during Ganesh immersion, the High Court reminds citizens not to immerse idols in Hussain Sagar Lake due to the rising pollution levels. This year is no different.
To support eco-friendly practices during Ganesh visarjan (immersion), the GHMC has made special arrangements across the city. They have set up 73 portable immersion ponds in various areas, ensuring a smooth and environmentally safe immersion process for Ganesh idols.
These arrangements include 27 ‘baby ponds’ inside lakes, 24 portable prefabricated water tanks, and 22 excavated ponds. These facilities can accommodate Ganesh idols ranging from 2 to 6 feet in height, offering a convenient option for those wishing to follow the High Court’s eco-friendly immersion guidelines. This initiative is part of a larger effort to reduce pollution and protect the city’s water bodies.
In addition, the Hyderabad police have requested the public to use alternate routes during Ganesh visarjan to avoid traffic jams. With large processions and road diversions expected, citizens are advised to plan their travel in advance, especially near Necklace Road, to avoid delays.
For emergencies or travel assistance, the traffic police have provided a helpline number, 9010203626, which will be available throughout the festival. Authorities have also assured the public that traffic flow will be closely monitored, and adjustments will be made to ensure a smooth and safe Ganesh visarjan celebration.
