Fadnavis Issues Food Safety and Route Guidelines for Ganeshotsav 2026
At a law and order review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed Ganesh mandals across Maharashtra to adhere strictly to food safety regulations while distributing prasad during Ganeshotsav 2026.
Fadnavis stated that mandals must familiarise themselves with rules set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and undergo necessary guidance and training to ensure prasad remains hygienic, pure, and free from adulteration. Emphasising that Ganeshotsav holds the status of a state festival, he noted that maintaining its sanctity and discipline is a collective responsibility of citizens, organisations, mandals, and the administration.
The Chief Minister instructed civic authorities to resolve permission-related issues for mandals without delay. He noted that the administration should take a proactive approach to expedite clearances, particularly for long-standing mandals that receive regular approvals. He also highlighted that provisions under Section 143 of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Act permit property tax exemptions for offices registered under eligible trusts.
Addressing civic infrastructure, Fadnavis directed municipal bodies to ensure that all roads designated for the arrival and immersion of Ganesh idols are maintained in good condition, illuminated adequately at night, and kept free of potholes. He also instructed police departments to strictly monitor and act against violations involving firecrackers and loudspeakers, while mandals were asked to double-check safety protocols during processions involving large idols.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also addressed the meeting, urged seamless coordination between government departments and festival organisers. Shinde stated that approximately 1,850 km of roads in Mumbai have been concretised and reiterated directives to eliminate potholes along procession routes. He added that steps are underway to issue five-year festival permissions to mandals and called on volunteers to stay alert against rumours circulated on social media.
