Hyderabad: To manage the heavy rush of devotees during Ganesh idol immersions, Hyderabad Metro Rail has extended its service hours on Saturday. Trains will run from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. the next day, making it easier for people to travel across the city during the celebrations.
Khairatabad idol immersion by 1 p.m.
City Police Commissioner C.V. Anand confirmed that all preparations are in place after three weeks of planning with multiple departments. Authorities have deployed 40 cranes at Tank Bund, Hussain Sagar, and NTR Ghat to assist with immersions.
He advised idol organisers to follow police directions. “Vehicles or idols taller than allowed need prior permission,” Anand said. Traffic routes have been clearly mapped, and barricades have been installed at key points. The massive Khairatabad Ganesh idol will be immersed by 1 p.m., he added.
To maintain order and safety, nearly 29,000 police personnel will be on duty across Hyderabad, as around 50,000 idols are expected to be immersed.
Arrangements by Ganesh Utsav Samiti
Meanwhile, Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Samithi general secretary Shashidhar said arrangements are complete at 34 lakes and 64 other immersion sites in Hyderabad. He expects close to 40 lakh devotees to take part in the processions.
The Samithi has also set up food stalls, drinking water points, and medical help stations. Shashidhar said they will work closely with the police to ensure smooth and safe celebrations.
