With thousands expected to step out to witness Ganpati processions during the 10-day festival, the F North ward of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has installed barricades and green cloth view-cutters along the Parel bridge to prevent people from putting themselves at risk while trying to catch a glimpse of the celebrations.

Police concern

The move was initiated following a suggestion from the police, who were concerned about large crowds gathering on the bridge to watch processions and take darshan. “The bridge, located near the ITC Grand Central hotel, has traditionally become a vantage point for residents and devotees during the festival. For the last several years, we have seen large crowds gathering and motorists halting. It always becomes a risky situation. For the safety of the public, we suggested installing the view-cutters,” said Senior Police Inspector Adinath Gawde of the Kalachowkie police station.