Ponnam Prabhakar Announces Free Power and 700 Special Buses for Ganesh Festivities

Telangana is gearing up for the upcoming Ganesh Navratri celebrations, with the state government planning extensive arrangements to ensure that devotees can take part in the festivities safely and peacefully.

Transport and BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar reviewed the preparations during a high level coordination meeting with officials from Hyderabad and surrounding districts. He announced that electricity would be provided free of cost to all Ganesh mandaps across the state.

With large crowds expected during the celebrations, the minister directed TGSRTC to operate 700 special bus services. He also asked officials to increase the frequency of Metro services and consider extending operating hours wherever the situation requires.

Security arrangements will receive additional attention during the festivities. She Teams and anti theft teams will be deployed at key locations to help manage crowds and prevent incidents. The minister also instructed authorities to keep medical camps and ambulances available around the clock.

Special arrangements are being planned at immersion points as well. Trained swimmers and life boats will be kept ready to respond to emergencies during idol immersion activities.

Officials have also been asked to inspect electrical connections at Ganesh mandaps and along procession routes before the celebrations begin. The checks are aimed at preventing electrical accidents during the crowded festivities.

The government is also encouraging environmentally friendly celebrations. Officials have been asked to promote clay idols and enforce restrictions on single use plastic to reduce pollution.

GHMC and municipal teams have been directed to remain available throughout the celebrations. Road repairs, sanitation, street lighting and the arrangement of temporary facilities will be monitored closely, with officials expected to respond quickly wherever public needs arise.