Powering Joy, Prioritizing Safety: CESC's Essential Guidelines for Ganesha Festival in Mysuru

As the vibrant Ganesha festival approaches, transforming streets and communities into hubs of celebration, the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) has stepped forward with crucial electrical safety guidelines. Their aim? To ensure that the spirit of devotion and festivity in the Mysuru region is illuminated by joy, not marred by preventable accidents.

These mandates are a clear call to action for organizers of public Ganesha pandals, emphasizing that safety is paramount.

At the heart of CESC's directives is the absolute necessity of obtaining a temporary power connection. This isn't just a suggestion; it's a mandatory step to prevent hazardous improvisations.

Organizers are strictly prohibited from drawing power directly from existing street lights, overhead power lines, or service lines. Such unauthorized connections pose severe risks, not only to the pandal but to the entire surrounding area, jeopardizing public safety.

Furthermore, the integrity of the electrical setup is non-negotiable.

All wiring and installations for temporary connections must be executed by a licensed electrical contractor. This ensures that the work adheres to established safety standards, minimizing the potential for short circuits, fires, or electrocution. CESC stresses the use of only ISI-marked wires, cables, and other electrical equipment, along with proper earthing.

The installation of essential safety devices like Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCBs) and Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) is also a critical requirement to provide immediate protection against electrical faults.

Location matters, especially when dealing with electricity. Organizers are explicitly warned against erecting pandals, temporary shelters, or decorative arches near power lines, electrical poles, or distribution transformers.

Maintaining a safe distance from these electrical infrastructures is vital to prevent accidental contact, particularly during decoration or idol immersion. Additionally, the use of damaged wires, switches, or equipment is strictly forbidden, and individuals are urged to avoid handling electrical connections with wet hands or while standing in water.

CESC also highlights the importance of public awareness.

They encourage organizers to educate visitors about electrical safety and to keep a fire extinguisher readily available. After the celebrations conclude, organizers are responsible for ensuring the prompt and safe disconnection of the temporary power supply, preventing any lingering hazards.

To facilitate a smooth and safe festival, CESC has provided dedicated helpline numbers for any emergencies or queries: 1912, 0821-2225827, and 0821-2225828.

These lines are open for reporting any electrical issues. CESC has made it clear that strict action, including penalties, will be taken against individuals or organizations found violating these crucial safety guidelines. The ultimate goal is a collective one: to ensure that the Ganesha festival in Mysuru is celebrated with immense joy, devotion, and, most importantly, without a single electrical mishap.