The fervor and excitement of Ganeshotsava are palpable in Pune, as the city gears up to welcome Lord Ganesha into countless homes and public pandals. While the festive spirit is infectious, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Limited (MSEDCL) has issued a crucial appeal to all Ganesh mandals in the city: opt for temporary, official electrical connections during the festival to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
Recognizing the significance of religious festivals, MSEDCL has adopted a considerate approach by offering electricity tariffs at domestic rates for celebrations of all religions. To maintain this harmony and adhere to the Indian Electricity Act of 2003, Ganesh mandals are urged to obtain temporary official power connections.
MSEDCL officials have made it clear that unauthorized electricity usage during the festival will not be tolerated, and strict actions will be taken against those found in violation. While the appeal is centered on compliance, the safety of pandal organizers and visitors is equally paramount.
As Pune often experiences unpredictable weather patterns during the Ganeshotsava festival, MSEDCL is emphasizing the importance of safeguarding power supplies. To avoid potential hazards, it is essential that electrical arrangements and setups within the pandals, including lighting installations, are handled exclusively by authorized electrical contractors.
MSEDCL officials have stressed the need to ensure the proper earthing of the electrical systems in the Ganesh Utsav Mandaps to mitigate risks associated with potential rains. They further highlighted the dangers posed by damaged insulation on wires, which can lead to current flowing into metallic parts of pandals or wet objects. To counteract this risk, it is imperative that exposed wire joints are either removed or adequately insulated with suitable capacity insulation tape.
In a bid to provide immediate assistance during emergencies, MSEDCL has made local officials readily accessible. For Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad city, as well as Ambegaon, Junnar, Maval, Khed, Mulshi, Velhe, and Haveli taluka, a special contact number—7875767123—has been designated for the ten-day festival period. Additionally, the regular toll-free helpline numbers 1912, 18002123435, and 18002333435 will remain active to cater to any electricity-related concerns.
Another critical point of emphasis is the safe operation of generators. MSEDCL officials have cautioned against starting generators when the power supply is off due to unforeseen circumstances. Doing so can result in a dangerous flow of current into low-voltage lines due to a single neutral, potentially causing fatal accidents. To mitigate this risk, separate neutrals for power supply and generators are strongly recommended during the festival.
Lastly, the Ganesh mandals are urged to conduct daily checks to ensure that lighting wires installed in public places and the electrical systems in the mandaps are not bent or disturbed. These precautions are crucial to prevent any unforeseen dangers that may arise during the festivities.
As Pune readies itself for the joyous celebration of Ganeshotsava, it is imperative that all Ganesh mandals prioritize safety and compliance when it comes to electrical installations. MSEDCL’s appeal underscores the need for responsible and cautious celebrations, ensuring that the divine presence of Lord Ganesha is welcomed without compromising the safety of devotees and the general public.
