Hyderabad: Telangana BC Welfare Minister and Hyderabad in-charge Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Tuesday held a meeting with officials to review arrangements for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the Ganesh festival in Hyderabad from September 14.

The preparatory meeting was attended by officials from various government departments, commissioners of the three municipal corporations, district collectors, police officials and representatives of the Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Samithi (BGUS).

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Ponnam Prabhakar said the government was making comprehensive arrangements to ensure that the Ganesh festivities are conducted peacefully and collectively across Hyderabad.

The Minister appealed to the Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Samithi to distribute saplings among devotees and encourage the use of handloom scarves during the celebrations. He also urged devotees to opt for eco-friendly clay Ganesha idols to help protect the environment.

Referring to the prayers conducted during the Bonalu festivities for good rainfall, Prabhakar said the government had suggested that prayers also be offered at Ganesh pandals for favourable weather conditions and the easing of El Niño conditions to support good rains.

The Minister stressed that the festivities should be celebrated while respecting court directions. He appealed to people to voluntarily cooperate with the authorities and celebrate the festival peacefully, maintaining harmony and public order.