Journalism of Courage
Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) on Sunday urged engineers, Ganesh mandal workers, and citizens in Pune to remain vigilant about electrical safety as preparations are underway for the Ganesh idol immersion procession on September 17.
Rajendra Pawar, chief engineer, MSEDCL (Pune zone), asked citizens to maintain a safe distance from the power grid and overhead lines while standing on tractor trolleys or raising tall flags.
During the immersion processions, engineers and staff with mobile vans and equipment will be on standby. He said a temporary control room will be established in the Modi Ganapati area, covering key routes like Laxmi Road and Tilak Road.
He said MSEDCL personnel will monitor the immersion procession routes to ensure devotees maintain a safe distance from power lines, feeder pillars, and other electrical infrastructure. Special care is requested, particularly for children, to avoid climbing or leaning on any electrical equipment.
“We are continuously monitoring the power supply throughout the festival, with measures taken to ensure electrical safety. Prior to Ganeshotsav, electrical systems were inspected, and maintenance was conducted at public Ganesh mandals and along procession routes. Feeder pillars were secured to prevent children and citizens from climbing them in crowded areas,” he said.
Around 4,574 engineers, technical staff and contractors are on duty in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Mulshi, Velhe, Haveli, Ambegaon, Junnar, Khed and Maval talukas. To avoid potential risks such as short circuits in the mandaps or faulty wiring, the MSEDCL has provided a special contact number (7875767123) for urgent assistance in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and nearby talukas, available until September 18. The toll-free numbers 1912, 18002123435, and 18002333435 are also open for any complaints.
