GHMC all ready for smooth Ganesh idol immersions 

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), in addition to the 20 main tanks including Hussainsagar, tanks at Saroornagar, IDL, Safilguda and the Sunnam tank, has set up 74 artificial ponds for the immersion of Ganesh idols.

These include baby ponds, mud ponds, dug ponds, portable tanks, and mobile ponds in various locations, thus reducing the burden of arrangements, transportation and logistics at the main tanks. Stressing smooth conduct of the immersion exercise in a spiritual and no-incident atmosphere, GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan said adequate measures are in place at each of these immersion points. About 134 static cranes and 269 mobile cranes, DRF teams and swimmers are being kept available for a fast, safe and smooth exercise.

For instance, in coordination with the Tourism Department and HYDRAA, Hussainsagar tank will have nine boats, 16 DRF teams and 200 swimmers ready, to ensure a smooth process. Preparation works along the immersion routes such as pruning of branches and fixing of hanging wires were carried out in an extent of 839.42 km. Along these routes, about 10,269 potholes were also filled and related repairs done.

For post-immersion cleanliness drive, the GHMC will deploy 160 action teams and its 14,486 sanitation personnel will work in three continuous shifts. About five lakh trash bags have already been distributed for waste collection at pandals. On the final day of immersion, 2,000 sweepers, 102 mini-tippers, 125 earthmovers and 30 sweeping machines will be involved for garbage removal.