Mumbai prepares for Ganeshotsav 2025 as BMC trains mandal volunteers in crowd and fire safety.
As Mumbai prepares to celebrate Ganeshotsav from August 27 to September 6, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of devotees and tourists. A crucial one-day training workshop is being organised for volunteers from Sarvajanik (public) Ganeshotsav Mandals, aiming to bolster community-level emergency preparedness, prevent accidents, and manage the anticipated massive crowds effectively. This initiative highlights a collaborative approach to urban safety, prioritising citizen engagement in festival management.
The Ganeshotsav festival, with its estimated 12,000 public mandals and 50,000 household idols, draws immense crowds to Mumbai, creating unique challenges for public safety and crowd control. Recognising this, the BMC Disaster Management Cell’s training programme is a strategic intervention designed to empower local volunteers with essential skills. By focusing on practical aspects such as risk identification, hazard management, and emergency response, the civic body aims to decentralise immediate response capabilities, fostering a more resilient and self-sufficient community during large-scale public gatherings.
The comprehensive workshop curriculum covers a range of critical topics, including effective crowd management techniques, accident prevention protocols, and the safe distribution of offerings. Participants will also receive fundamental training in fire safety, complete with live demonstrations, and basic first aid. This multi-faceted approach ensures that volunteers are equipped to handle a variety of potential scenarios, from minor incidents to more significant emergencies. The emphasis on practical, actionable knowledge is vital for maintaining order and ensuring swift responses in crowded environments.
Expert guidance for the training will be provided by seasoned professionals from various key civic agencies, including the BMC itself, the Mumbai Fire Brigade, the Police, civic hospitals, and the city’s transport undertaking, BEST. This collaborative effort brings together diverse expertise, ensuring that the training is robust, relevant, and aligned with established emergency protocols. Each mandal has been requested to nominate two volunteers, facilitating a wide reach and ensuring that safety knowledge permeates across the numerous community organisations involved in the festival.
This proactive safety initiative by the BMC underscores a commitment to creating more sustainable and equitable urban environments, where large cultural events can be celebrated without compromising public safety. By investing in community preparedness and empowering local volunteers, the city is building a stronger, more resilient social fabric. The focus on accident prevention and emergency response not only protects lives but also enhances the overall experience for all participants, allowing Mumbai to celebrate its vibrant traditions responsibly and securely. This model of community-led disaster preparedness could serve as a blueprint for other large urban centres hosting similar mega-events.
