Pune: Collector Orders Total Dry Days During Ganesh Festival in Select Areas

Pune district collector issued an order on Thursday evening to observe total dry days for all 10 days of the Ganesh Festival in areas under the jurisdiction of Khadak, Vishrambaug, and Faraskhana police stations. The decision, taken in response to a proposal from the Pune police, is aimed at enhancing public safety and minimizing alcohol-related incidents during the festival, which runs from September 7 to September 17.

Pune police had earlier recommended the prohibition of liquor sales in these areas for the entire 10-day duration of the festival. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said that, while dry days are typically observed on September 7, 17, and 18 (until the end of the Ganesh immersion procession), many Ganesh mandals requested the extension of the dry days to the full 10-day period. According to Section 124 (2) of the Bombay Prohibition Act, the police have the authority to close liquor establishments if they pose a threat to law and order.

While many local residents support the move, citing the focus on public safety, some stakeholders, including business owners, have expressed concerns. Ganesh Shetty, president of the Pune Hoteliers Association, voiced his opposition, stating, “Total liquor ban will affect local businesses. Bar owners have paid licence fees for the entire year. How can they ban business for 10 days? Such decisions need to be taken after meeting the stakeholders.”

The decision has sparked a conversation about balancing safety measures with the economic impacts on local vendors and traditional festival practices.