Ahmedabad News| Shahibaug Underbridge closed for 15 days, 51 artificial ponds for Ganeshotsav & more

Shahibaug Underbridge to remain closed for 15 days for maintenance, AMC gears up for Ganeshotsav with 51 artificial ponds, Ahmedabad experiences scattered rains, and more. Stay updated with the latest city news in this Ahmedabad news roundup.

The Shahibaug Underbridge will remain closed to vehicular traffic until 6 a.m. on the 18th of September for essential maintenance work. Western Railway is repairing damaged iron plates beneath the railway tracks passing over the Underbridge, necessitating the closure of all three entry and exit points.

Commuters are advised to use alternative routes to avoid inconvenience during this period.

Ahead of Ganeshotsav, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is setting up 51 artificial ponds across 48 locations to facilitate the immersion of Ganesh idols. Key immersion points will include Sabarmati Riverfront and Indira Bridge Chhathghat, along with other designated sites.

Additionally, special reception and worship stages will be installed at six prominent locations to ensure smooth conduct of the rituals. The AMC has earmarked Rs 80-90 lakhs for the project, aimed at providing an eco-friendly and organized solution for idol immersion.

Ahmedabad experienced scattered rainfall on Friday morning, with steady showers recorded across various parts of the city. The eastern regions saw heavy downpours late Thursday night, particularly in areas like Viratnagar, Odhav, Rakhial, and Bapunagar.

Meanwhile, the western parts of the city witnessed only light drizzles, while residents in Nikol, CTM, and Memco woke up to more consistent rain. Though uneven, the showers have brought some relief from the prevailing humid conditions.

In response to the recent surge in vector-borne diseases, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s North West Zone has launched a campaign. The initiative introduces drones to spray anti-larval pesticides over stagnant water bodies, such as lakes and large pools.

These drones will cover hard-to-reach breeding grounds, including warehouses, vacant plots, and neglected areas. Equipped with four spray nozzles and 10-litre tanks of medicinal solutions, a specialized team is overseeing the operation. The campaign will continue as a part of AMC's broader efforts to control disease outbreaks.

The Gujarat government has extended the ban on the sale and storage of gutka and tobacco-laced pan masala containing nicotine for another year, starting September 13. This decision, announced by the Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA), is aimed at safeguarding public health by continuing the prohibition of these harmful products.