June 9, 2025: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to install marine navigation buoys at 27 Ganesh idol immersion (visarjan) locations across the city. Rajesh Tamhane, Deputy Commissioner of BMC’s Environment Department, stated that these buoys will be placed at key sites including Girgaum Chowpatty, Shivaji Park Chowpatty, Dadar Chowpatty, Gorai, Manori, and Juhu Chowpatty. While high-tide levels are relatively easy to identify, the BMC aims to clearly mark low-tide lines to ensure devotees do not cross into hazardous areas during the immersion process.
Tragically, Mumbai records an average of five fatalities during the Ganesh visarjan celebrations each year. To enhance safety, multiple agencies including lifeguards, the coastal wing of Mumbai Police, the Coast Guard, and the Indian Navy vigilantly monitor the busiest immersion days. Prashant Sapkale, Deputy Commissioner of Zone 2, was among the first officials to advocate for the installation of marine navigation buoys.
A senior officer from the Mumbai Fire Brigade highlighted the challenges faced annually at Girgaum Chowpatty, where despite warnings and jet ski patrols, many individuals enter dangerous waters claiming to be able swimmers. “Our teams often have to rescue people when the situation becomes perilous. These buoy markers will act as both deterrents and guides, helping people identify unsafe zones, especially during low tides,” he explained.
Initially, the BMC considered hiring this equipment, but due to a lack of suppliers willing to provide the service, the decision was made to purchase the buoys outright. This move is expected to significantly enhance safety measures during the popular and culturally significant Ganesh visarjan festivities, protecting thousands of devotees across Mumbai’s coastline.
Source: Hindustan Times
