MUMBAI: On Tuesday, Mumbai and Maharashtra, like many states,  are buzzing with vibrant celebrations as the Ganesh Chaturthi festival concludes with the immersion of Lord Ganesh idols. The festivities, which began on September 7, are marked by large processions and heightened security.

To manage the expected influx of participants, the Mumbai Police have issued a traffic advisory and implemented several diversions throughout the city.

Closed Areas: In South Mumbai, several key areas will be closed to traffic, including Colaba, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Captain Prakash Pethe Marg, and Rambhau Salgaonkar Marg. Vehicle access will also be restricted on Mahapalika Marg outside CSMT railway station and various roads in Kalbadevi, such as JSS Road, Vitthalbhai Patel Road, and Baba Saheb Jaykar Road.

Railway Overbridge Restrictions: New regulations for Railway Overbridges (ROBs) limit the number of people crossing at one time to 100. Additionally, processions, dancing, and loudspeakers are prohibited on these bridges for safety reasons.

Traffic Conditions: Heavy traffic is anticipated around Girgaon Chowpatty and nearby areas, including Thakurdwar, VP Road, SVP Road, and Raja Ram Mohan Roy Road. Significant congestion is also expected in Cuffe Parade, Badhwar Park in Colaba, Metro Junction near CSMT, and areas in Bhendi Bazaar, Pydhonie, and DB Marg. In Nagpada, heavy traffic is likely at Agripada, Saat Rasta Junction, Khada Parsee Junction, NM Joshi Marg, and Mumbai Central Junction. Motorists are advised to use main roads such as Dr. BA Road, Lalbaug Flyover Bridge, Sir JJ Flyover, and the Coastal Road to avoid congestion.

Security Measures: More than 24,000 police personnel have been deployed to ensure safety during the Ganesh immersion processions. Thousands of Ganesh idols will be immersed at 204 artificial ponds and 69 natural water bodies across the city, including Girgaon, Dadar, Juhu, Marve, and Aksa beaches.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has mobilized over 12,000 officials, set up 71 control rooms, and stationed 761 lifeguards along with 48 speed boats at the beaches. Citizens are advised to avoid deep waters and be cautious of marine species like 'blue button jellyfish' and 'stingrays,' with immediate first aid recommended for fish stings.

Drone surveillance will be used at key immersion sites such as Girgaon Chowpatty, Dadar, Bandra, Juhu, Versova, Powai Lake, and Madh Island, supported by over 8,000 CCTVs. In addition to local police, the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), quick response teams (QRT), and riot control police (RCP) are also involved. Over 2,500 traffic police personnel will manage vehicle movement, with some roads restricted, one-way, or diverted.

To assist with coordination, 192 control rooms and 66 observation towers have been established across various administrative areas. The BMC has introduced a QR code system for locating nearby artificial ponds, which can be accessed via their website or Google Maps for eco-friendly celebrations.

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