Pune Gears Up for Ganesh Visarjan: PMC Sets Stage with Eco-Friendly and Safety Measures

Pune, 5th September 2025: With the city preparing for the grand Ganesh visarjan processions, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has completed a comprehensive plan to ensure that this year’s immersion is safe, eco-friendly, and well-managed.

From artificial ponds and iron tanks to drone surveillance and medical squads, the civic body has rolled out a multi-layered strategy to handle lakhs of devotees who will gather for the concluding rituals of Ganeshotsav.

Determined to minimize water pollution, PMC has set up 38 artificial ponds and 648 iron tanks at 281 locations across the city. Citizens are being urged to choose these facilities or donate idols for eco-friendly immersion instead of using natural rivers and lakes.

To further encourage sustainability, 46 dedicated Shadu idol collection centres have been established. The collected idols will later be respectfully re-immersed at Wagholi quarries under strict supervision. Nirmalya (floral offerings) will be separately collected at 328 designated points, ensuring flowers and organic waste don’t mix with river water.

Safety and Security First:
Crowd management remains a key priority. Along with thousands of civic staff and volunteers, a large police force will be deployed. CCTV cameras are already active, and for the first time, drones will monitor immersion sites to ensure a swift response to any emergencies.

Devotees have been requested not to enter the water directly, as trained staff will assist in immersing idols.

Cleanliness and Medical Support:
To maintain hygiene, special cleaning squads will be stationed along procession routes and at ghats. The Health Department has arranged ambulances, first-aid centres, and medical teams, including doctors and nurses at multiple points to provide on-the-spot assistance.

For the massive turnout, 554 mobile toilets have been installed across the city. Vehicles from the Motor Vehicle Department have also been pressed into service for idol and waste collection.

“To ensure a safe, clean, and eco-friendly Ganesh visarjan, citizens must cooperate with the administration and follow guidelines. All necessary facilities have been arranged for devotees,” said Sandeep Kadam, Deputy Commissioner, Solid Waste Management Department, PMC.

With eco-friendly practices and modern surveillance in place, the city is ready for a smooth and mindful celebration.