Pune: The grand Ganesh immersion procession in Pune saw an overwhelming turnout of devotees, eager to witness the immersion of the prestigious idols, including Kasba Ganpati and other renowned deities.
However, the blazing afternoon sun combined with the sheer size of the crowd resulted in multiple cases of dehydration and fainting, especially among women. Within just the first four hours of the event, emergency medical teams were called to assist 122 people.
In addition to health issues caused by the heat, several drummers were injured during the event. The tight spacing between participants led to a few incidents where drummers accidentally hit each other while performing. At least 5 to 6 drummers sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
With temperatures soaring and a cloudless sky, the heat took a toll on many attendees, who had been standing in the crowd for hours to catch a glimpse of the revered idols. Many, unable to bear the heat, began to feel dizzy, with some women collapsing on the street.
Emergency medical centers, set up at key locations such as Belbaug Chowk, Alka Talkies Chowk, SP College Chowk, and Puram Chowk, provided immediate assistance to those affected.
In addition, medical aid stations were established at Gokhale Hall on Laxmi Road, near Sweet Home on Kumthekar Road, Narayan Peth Police Station, and SP College Chowk on Tilak Road.
Dr. Milind Bhoi, trustee of the Pune Police Vighnaharta Trust, confirmed that 122 people received treatment for heat-related illnesses in the initial hours of the procession.
Despite these incidents, the Ganesh immersion procession, a cultural and religious highlight in Pune, continued with fervor. The authorities, including police and medical teams, worked in coordination to ensure the safety of the public during this massive event, which draws thousands of people each year.
