The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a massive civic operation to manage the large congregation expected at Dadar's Chaitya Bhoomi on December 6. This date marks the 69th Mahaparinirvan Diwas, the death anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, where lakhs of followers gather to pay homage at his resting place.
Large-Scale Infrastructure for Followers
In anticipation of the huge influx of devotees traveling from across India, the BMC has erected extensive temporary infrastructure at the Shivaji Park ground. The centerpiece is a series of waterproof residential pavilions spread over a vast area of 1 lakh square feet. To combat dust, a 30,000 square metre area has been covered with dust-proof blankets.
Sanitation is a major focus, with the civic body providing 150 mobile toilets and 254 permanent toilets at the ground. Special pink toilets have been arranged for women's convenience. A team of 527 sanitation workers will be deployed per session to maintain cleanliness across the premises.
Medical, Security, and Live-Streaming Arrangements
Healthcare preparedness has been significantly scaled up this year. The BMC has arranged medical camps and deployed 585 skilled medical personnel to offer immediate services to attendees. Security measures are equally robust, featuring CCTV cameras, metal detectors, bag scanners, and observation towers across the venue. A dedicated control room has been set up to monitor the event in real-time.
For those unable to be physically present at Chaitya Bhoomi, the BMC will facilitate participation remotely. The official memorial programme will be live-streamed on large LED screens installed at the site and on the BMC's official social media handles. Ten such LED screens have been placed within the residential pavilion area for followers to view the proceedings.
Round-the-Clock Civic Mobilization
The scale of the operation requires immense manpower. Over 8,000 BMC staffers will be working in shifts to ensure the event runs smoothly, managing everything from crowd control and sanitation to medical aid and logistics. The civic body's comprehensive plan underscores the historical and cultural significance of Mahaparinirvan Diwas at Chaitya Bhoomi, a site that draws followers annually to honor the architect of the Indian Constitution.
Located at Dadar Chowpatty, Chaitya Bhoomi serves as the final resting place of Dr. Ambedkar. Every year on his death anniversary, it becomes a focal point for remembrance and reflection for people from all walks of life, necessitating such elaborate arrangements by the city's administration.
