Hyderabad gears up for Ganesh immersion on Saturday; focus on routes, safety

Hyderabad: With the city preparing for the grand Ganesh idol immersion procession on Saturday, Hyderabad police have stepped up security and coordination measures.

Officials are focusing on idol heights, route clearances and safety protocols to ensure the massive event passes off peacefully.

Joint inspection of procession route

Hyderabad City Police Commissioner CV Anand, GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan and District Collector Harichandana Dasari led a joint inspection along the 19-kilometre route from Balapur Ganesh Mandapam to the Telugu Talli flyover near the Secretariat.

The route covers key stretches through Chandrayangutta, Falaknuma, Charminar and MJ Market.

Coordination and timely immersion

Anand directed zonal officers to ensure idols in their jurisdictions begin the journey on time.

Citing past experience, he said immersions can stretch over 40 hours, but starting early could shorten the process. Critical junctions, including Gulzar House, Rajesh Medical Hall and MJ Market, were reviewed for clearances.

Safety in focus amid rains

With rains posing electrocution risks, mandap organisers have been asked to adopt strict precautions. Anand added that central forces have joined the city police and conducted march past drills as part of readiness.

Massive security deployment

Nearly 30,000 police personnel will be on duty, including Quick Response Teams, Dog Squads, Anti-Chain Snatching Teams and She Teams. Accommodation and food arrangements have been made for the staff.

Traffic diversions planned

Several roads along the procession route will face closures or diversions to manage traffic and facilitate idol movement.

Religious harmony praised

The Commissioner thanked religious leaders for postponing the Milad-un-Nabi procession, earlier scheduled for September 6, to September 14. “This gesture will help both festivals proceed peacefully,” he said.

Call for public cooperation

Appealing to devotees, Anand said: “We hope this year’s immersion will conclude without any untoward incidents. Public cooperation is vital for smooth conduct.