Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) has begun preparations at seven immersion ghats and along procession routes to manage Durga idol immersion and Dussehra celebrations. Nodal officers, along with in-charge and assistant officers, have been appointed at each ghat. Civic officials will also coordinate with other departments from the police control room to address complaints and emergencies.

 

Three-shift deployment planned Fire officers, zonal officers, civil and electrical engineers, health officers and their teams will be deployed in three shifts. Arrangements will include barricades, lighting, drinking water, sanitation and cranes wherever required. The fire department will station fire engines, trained personnel, rescue equipment and divers at the ghats. Routes to be cleared The civic body has directed officials to remove temporary stalls and encroachments along immersion and procession routes. Potholes will be repaired, overhanging branches trimmed, banners removed and stray animals kept away. Essential facilities must remain available until immersion activities are completed.

 

Fire safety at Dussehra venues Ravan-Dahan venues and surrounding roads will receive additional cleaning, lighting and drinking-water arrangements. Fire stations will remain on alert, with fire engines and trained personnel deployed at major sites. Organisers have been advised to keep fire extinguishers, sand and water buckets at pandals, ensure electrical wiring is handled by licensed electricians and keep access routes clear for fire engines. Citizens asked to use designated ghats The BMC has urged residents to immerse idols only at designated ghats and artificial ponds and avoid entering deep water. People have also been asked to follow traffic diversions and parking rules and avoid blocking roads, which could obstruct ambulances and emergency vehicles. Emergency helplines issued Residents can report immersion-related problems or emergencies to the fire brigade control room at 0755-2542222, 2701401 or 2540220. For fire or other emergencies, they can also call 101 or 112.