Mumbai imposes Section 144, Ganpati festivities toned down

MUMBAI: Even as much of the country goes through graded unlocking, Mumbai and its suburbs are seeing renewed restrictions, amid rising coronavirus cases.

On Wednesday, Mumbai police imposed Section-144 in the city, prohibiting presence or movement of one or more persons in public places or gathering of any sort anywhere, including religious places, subject to certain conditions. The order will remain in force till 15 July.

“There is a likelihood of spread of the COVID-19 virus through the gathering of persons in public or private places and there is a grave danger to human life, health or safety. There are sufficient reasons for passing prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to ensure that there is no danger to human life," the order by deputy commissioner of police (operations) Pranaya Ashok said.

Mumbai, the biggest contributor to coronavirus infections in the state, reported 1,487 new cases on



Wednesday, taking the overall case count to 79,145. With 75 new deaths, Mumbai’s total deaths now stand at 4,631. Active cases in Mumbai are at 29,715 and 44,791 patients have recovered.

Mumbai's satellite urban areas Thane and Mira-Bhayander too have independently reported lockdowns. While Thane is under lockdown from 7 am on 2 July to 12 July, in Mira Bhayander, it will last work 10 July. 

In the meantime, Ganesh Chaturthi merriments will be absent at the notable Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati, without precedent for a long time. The Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, the trust which introduces the well known Ganpati symbol, will compose a wellbeing camp.

“Yes; we have decided to cancel the celebrations this year. Instead, we will be organizing a blood donation and plasma donation camp for the 11 days," said Sudhir Salvi, member of the Lalbaugcha Raja organizing committee. Lalbaugcha Raja is among the most-visited Ganesh idols in the city.