Devotees gathering on Pune’s streets to bid farewell to Lord Ganesh during Saturday’s Ganesh Visarjan are expected to face rainfall throughout the day, according to weather experts.Anupam Kashyapi, former head of weather forecasting at the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), stated that Pune and surrounding areas will experience light to moderate rain for most of the day.
The IMD has also predicted above-normal rainfall in September, accompanied by possible extreme weather events.Kashyapi added that a well-marked low-pressure system is likely to intensify into a depression, moving away from South Rajasthan and adjoining North Gujarat. Moisture-laden upper air circulation over the North East Arabian Sea and Gujarat is expected to contribute to the rainfall.
“Visibility may be affected and roads could become partially slippery, but the mostly light rains should not significantly disrupt the immersion procession,” he noted.On Saturday, Ganesh Mandals will line up along Laxmi Road for the immersion procession marking Anant Chaturdashi.
This year’s procession is expected to be shorter than usual, following police appeals urging mandals to curtail their routes.Traditionally, the procession begins when the five Manache Ganapatis—Kasba Peth, Tambdi Jogeshwari, Guruji Talim, Tulsibaug, and Kesariwada mandals—cross Belbaug Chowk and proceed through the city.
Key arterial roads such as Laxmi Road and Tilak Road are usually closed to traffic to facilitate the event.The Ganesh Visarjan procession is renowned for its vibrant display of traditional dhol-tasha pathaks and other cultural art forms. Many groups decorate the streets with rangoli, while citizens gather along the route to witness the celebrations.
September marks the final month of the monsoon season. Since its start, Pune district has experienced a significant rainfall deficit. The IMD forecasts a 20% rainfall shortfall this week, with only 45 mm of rain recorded so far—well below normal levels. Both July and August also saw below-average rainfall, contributing to the ongoing deficit.
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