Fire services, SDRF swimmers to be deployed for Ganesh immersions across Telangana

Telangana authorities will deploy trained Fire Services and SDRF swimmers at major water bodies during Ganesh idol immersions. The teams will patrol immersion points, monitor devotees entering deep waters and respond to emergencies as officials step up safety measures across the State.

HYDERABAD: The Telangana Fire Services Department and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) swimmers will be deployed at major water bodies across the State to prevent drowning incidents during Ganesh idol immersions.

With immersion programmes gaining momentum across Telangana, authorities have stepped up safety measures following the tragic death of six students in a drowning incident at Patancheru. Officials said special focus has been placed on preventing such incidents during the festival, when large crowds gather near lakes, ponds and other immersion points.

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Expert swimmers from the Fire Services and SDRF will be stationed along the shores of immersion locations and will also patrol the water bodies in boats to monitor the process. The teams will remain alert to respond immediately in case of any emergency.

A senior official said the deployment of trained swimmers was discussed during the preparatory meetings held ahead of the festival. Based on the requirement and crowd movement, an adequate number of personnel will be positioned at identified immersion points.

The official said coordination is being maintained with local authorities and other departments to ensure smooth and safe immersion arrangements. The teams will also keep a watch on devotees entering deep waters and take immediate action to prevent drowning incidents.