Hyderabad: The Telangana Fire Services Department and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) will deploy trained swimmers at major water bodies across the State as authorities strengthen safety measures during Ganesh idol immersions.
The move comes as immersion activities gain momentum across Telangana and follows the drowning of six students during an idol immersion at Patancheru.
Officials said special attention is being given to preventing drowning incidents as large numbers of devotees gather near lakes, ponds and other designated immersion locations.
Swimmers to Patrol Water Bodies
Trained swimmers from the Fire Services and SDRF will be stationed along the shores of major immersion points. Teams will also patrol water bodies using boats to monitor immersion activities and respond quickly to emergencies.
Personnel will keep a close watch on devotees entering deeper sections of lakes and other water bodies and intervene when necessary to reduce the risk of drowning.
A senior official said the deployment of trained swimmers was discussed during preparatory meetings conducted ahead of the festival.
The number of personnel deployed at each location will be determined based on requirements, expected crowd movement and conditions at individual immersion points.
Departments Coordinate on Safety Measures
Authorities are coordinating with local administrations and other departments to ensure Ganesh idol immersions are conducted safely and smoothly.
Emergency response teams are expected to remain on alert at identified locations throughout the immersion period, particularly at water bodies expected to witness large crowds.
Officials said the presence of trained swimmers, boat patrols and closer monitoring of people entering the water are intended to enable faster intervention during emergencies and prevent drowning incidents.
