02 September,2024 04:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representative image/ Atul Kamble
In preparation for Ganeshotsav 2024, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) methodically prepared and executed a complete lighting and power supply network to ensure that the city's devotees have a seamless and well-lit festival experience. The plans, developed in partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), would include significant procession routes, immersion locations, and artificial ponds throughout Mumbai.
BEST's street lighting department has planned to illuminate 2,591 lamps along 71 procession routes, 20 immersion sites, and 39 artificial ponds. In addition, 15 permanent electric towers have been built at immersion sites to provide steady lighting.
"Every year, the electricity supply department of BEST makes a lighting scheme for the public Ganeshotsav on the procession route, immersion sites as per the work order given by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and the Ganeshotsav Mandals are provided temporary electricity supply as per their power supply demand application. The bus transport for Ganesh devotees is arranged by the transport department of BEST," the undertaking said in their statement.
ALSO READ
Kurla BEST bus crash: Driver says he minimised loss of lives with evasive action
Major bus routes across city disrupted over minor reasons, activists cry foul
Kurla BEST bus crash: Driver claims he saw spark before he lost control of bus
Not providing enough training is peak irresponsibility
Experts call for change in holding those responsible for public accidents
Elaborating on the arrangements made for Ganeshotsav 2024, it said, "BEST's street lighting department has planned the lighting scheme on the procession route and immersion sites in accordance with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's work order. BEST has planned to light 2591 lamps at 71 procession routes, 20 immersion sites and 39 artificial ponds for Ganesh devotees in Mumbai city. A total of 15 permanent electric towers have been installed for proper lighting at the immersion sites. Also, a total of 8 diesel generator sets will be arranged for alternate power supply at immersion sites to ensure smooth power supply in case of emergency in crowded places."
To aid lifeguards during sea immersions, 19 high-power searchlights will be deployed to provide deep-water lighting in the event of an emergency. A dedicated team of officers and workers will be on hand to monitor and ensure a continuous power supply at all immersion locations, the BEST said in their statement.
The BEST, ahead of Ganeshotsav 2024, has also worked with its transport department to arrange bus services for devotees, guaranteeing a smooth journey during the festivities.
