Numerous families and a few public pandals in Mumbai are bidding an emotional adieu to Lord Ganesha today. The immersion of Ganesh idols after their worship for one and a half days is currently going on across Mumbai with six thousand nine hundred and sixty idols immersed till 6 pm. According to the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, close to three thousand of these idols were immersed in artificial ponds. Besides the natural sites, the civic body has set up close to 190 artificial ponds across the city to ensure the eco-friendly immersion of idols. 
 
Meanwhile, issuing an advisory for citizens opting to immerse the idols at natural sites, the civic body has urged citizens to use the assistance of lifeguards. Citizens have been advised to avoid entering the sea with any exposed skin so as to prevent bites from sting rays and jellyfish. In case of any injury, the person must avoid rubbing the wound and seek immediate first aid from the nearest clinic.
 
Mumbai’s favourite and much-awaited Ganesh Utsav began yesterday with fanfare and devotion. This year, a total of 2,729 'sarvajanik' Ganeshotsav mandals have been permitted to organise public festivities besides lakhs of families in Mumbai that have also brought their Bappa home. More than 13,750 police personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of devotees and to maintain a smooth flow of traffic during the ten-day festival.