India, Sept. 14 -- Pune -

Large Ganpati pandals set up by several mandals in central Pune have started occupying road space and affecting traffic movement, prompting the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and police to reiterate their appeal to festival organisers to keep inner roads clear during the festival.

Among the pandals found occupying or obstructing road space are those of the Babu Genu Ganpati mandal in the Mandai area, Natubaug on Bajirao Road, Bhikardas Maruti, and a Ganesh mandal on Pune Vidyarthi Griha road at Sadashiv Peth. According to residents, large pandals and related arrangements have narrowed down the carriageway, making it difficult for vehicles to pass; and increasing congestion, particularly during peak hours. Res...