A tragic accident during Ganesh Visarjan on Saturday in Mumbai’s Sakinaka area resulted in one death and five serious injuries after a high-tension wire came into contact with a Ganesh idol trolley on Khairani Road. The deceased, Binu Sukumaran (37), and the injured, including a six-year-old boy, were rushed to nearby hospitals, where the injured are currently in stable but critical condition.
This incident occurred during the procession of the Gajanan Mitra Mandal and is under investigation for any negligence involved. The mishap follows several similar accidents during Ganesh immersion this season across India, including a tractor overturning in Andhra Pradesh that killed four people.
High-Tension Wire Causes Electrocution During Mumbai Ganesh Visarjan
The accident occurred around 10:45 pm near Sanman Hotel on Khairani Road, where participants carrying a 23.5-foot Ganesh idol trolley came into contact with a vertical wire connected to a live high-tension 22Kv line maintained by Tata Power.
Eyewitnesses said the idol and the wire were initially at a safe distance, but the suspended vertical wire unexpectedly touched the idol, passing electric current through the devotees holding the vehicle. Five injured devotees, including Dharmaraj Gupta (49), Aarush Gupta (6), and others, were admitted to Paramount Hospital and Seven Hills Hospital, with most in critical care but stable. Despite medical intervention, Binu Sukumaran died during treatment.
A Series of Ganesh Immersion Accidents Across India
This accident in Mumbai is among multiple incidents reported during the festival season. In Andhra Pradesh’s West Godavari district, a tractor overturned during immersion, killing four people and critically injuring another. In Vijayapura, Karnataka, a 21-year-old youth lost his life and two others suffered severe burns after coming in contact with live wires during a Ganesh procession.
These repeated tragedies underscore persistent safety challenges during large-scale religious processions in crowded urban spaces, highlighting the urgent need for stronger safety protocols, public awareness, and infrastructure preparedness.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian expresses deep sorrow over the loss of life and injuries during this year’s Ganesh Visarjan celebrations. Public festivals are meant to reinforce community bonds and cultural heritage without endangering participants.
It is crucial that municipal authorities, event organisers, and utility companies collaborate closely to enhance safety infrastructure, enforce stringent checks, and educate communities about risks related to electrical hazards during processions.
