Crocs in SGNP lake trigger threat

Having confirmed the presence of at least two crocodiles in the lake in Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has now put up signboards there warning visitors against entering the water. The signboards specifically warn people against immersing Ganpati idols at the spot.

Recently, SGNP forest officials had warned the BMC about sighting crocodiles in the lake, adding that they had not been able to trap the crocodiles despite making an effort. Following this, the corporation’s R central ward office has put up warning signs at the lake urging citizens to not enter it for immersing Ganesh idols.

Kishor Gandhi, the assistant commissioner of the R central ward, said: “We want to avoid any untoward incident. It is highly unlikely that the crocodile will attack a very large crowd. But if it appears on the day of the immersion, it may create panic and a stampede-like situation.”

The BMC has decided to make an alternate arrangement of five artificial ponds in the east side of the park, meant for immersing idols.

The lake traditionally sees a lot of Ganesh idols being immersed every year, with over 500 household idols and over 100 small- and medium-sized mandals using it for immersion. Immersions happen here two and a half days after the festival starts, after five days of the festival and on the 10th day as well.

Mr Gandhi said, “The artificial ponds will be useful in reducing the lake’s pollution. We will be stationing lifeguards at the lake anyway, as we do not want to risk anything.”