Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde rolls back BMC’s ₹15,000 pothole penalty for Mumbai Ganesh Mandals, reinstating the earlier ₹2,000 fee—bringing major relief ahead of festivities.

Relief for Mumbai Ganesh Mandals: Eknath Shinde Rolls Back ₹15,000 Per Pothole Fine, Restores ₹2,000 Rule

Deputy CM Steps In Amid Widespread Backlash

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on July 31, 2025, announced the reversal of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) newly imposed penalty of ₹15,000 per pothole for Ganeshot­sav mandals. Instead, the original fine of ₹2,000 per pothole will continue, as approved by the Deputy CM after discussing the matter with BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani.

Shinde made this announcement via a post on his official X account. He emphasized that the penalty hike had generated significant concern among mandal organizers. After reviewing the issue with civic authorities, he instructed that the higher fine be rescinded immediately.

Background—Why the Fine Was Raised

Earlier in July 2025, the BMC had issued a circular increasing the road reinstatement fee for mandals from ₹2,000 to ₹15,000 per pothole. This move was part of a larger policy to protect newly concretised roads in Mumbai, where trenching is prohibited for three years due to costly reconstruction.

City officials argued the previous fine lacked deterrence, especially given that many mandals operate with crores in turnover. NGOs had also taken legal action, arguing the low penalty was inadequate to prevent infrastructure damage .

Strong Objections from Ganesh Mandal Representatives

The coordinating body, Brihanmumbai Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samanvay Samiti, strongly opposed the ₹15,000 hike. They demanded the rollback of the new fine, along with police support for processions, case withdrawals against festival volunteers, and removal of abandoned vehicles near pandals. They underscored that Ganeshotsav is a state festival, deserving due respect and support from authorities .

Samiti President Naresh Dahibawkar highlighted that former Chief Minister and current Deputy CM Eknath Shinde had previously waived fees for mandals. He called on the present government to uphold the same inclusive spirit .

Shinde Appeals for Self-Restraint by Mandals

Deputy CM Shinde appealed to mandals to refrain from digging into concretised roads. He encouraged them to consider alternative, non-invasive technologies for erecting pandals—demonstrating a balance between civic responsibility and cultural tradition .

What Comes Next for Ganesh Mandals

With the reinstatement fee reverting to ₹2,000 per pothole, mandals now have clarity ahead of Ganeshotsav preparations. However, mandals planning to dig on newly concretised roads still risk penalties and must seek viable alternatives.

Authorities are expected to coordinate with mandals to ensure rituals continue smoothly, while preserving Mumbai’s infrastructure.

Cultural Festivals and Infrastructure in Harmony

By stepping in decisively, Deputy CM Shinde addressed mounting public and political pressure, delivering much‑needed relief to Ganesh mandals across Mumbai. The rollback underscores a sensitive yet pragmatic approach—respecting cultural traditions while safeguarding public infrastructure. Enforcement of alternative mandap‑erection methods may now become a key focus ahead of the festival season.

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