Pune, 14 August 2025: Preparations for the upcoming Ganesh festival in Pune are in full swing, with the event set to begin in a few days. This year, the Maharashtra government has granted the celebration the status of a “Maharashtra State Festival,” promising a grander scale and heightened enthusiasm.
In this context, MLA Hemant Rasne and Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram, accompanied by senior officials, inspected key areas in central Pune to assess readiness.
MLA Rasne highlighted that the Kasba constituency has a deep connection with the Ganesh festival, hosting over 300 mandals and drawing lakhs of devotees annually.
He said that with the new state recognition, arrangements are being strengthened, including lighting, footpath repairs, improved water supply, and other civic facilities. Special focus is being given to resolving traffic bottlenecks through underpasses, alternate routes, and “No Entry” measures, along with a major cleanliness drive.
Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram assured that traffic issues will be addressed with both short-term fixes and long-term planning. He noted that some roads have been built but are not yet in use, and efforts are underway to make them operational.
The commissioner also said that significant traffic improvements will be visible within the next 18 months, and that there are no disputes regarding immersion processions, with all arrangements to be finalized before the festival begins.
Officials emphasized that this year’s festival, marking 133 years of Pune’s Ganesh celebrations, will focus on smooth traffic management, adequate facilities for devotees, and a clean environment throughout the city. They also underlined the importance of coordination between civic bodies, police, and festival committees to ensure a safe and orderly event.
On other civic matters, the commissioner stated that no official orders have been received regarding pigeon control, but the civic body will act if directives are issued. He added that liquor ban decisions rest with the district collector, and no proposals have been submitted to ban meat sales during the festival.
