Mumbai: Hundreds Perform Shraddh Rituals On Last Day Of Pitru Paksha At Banganga Tank Amid Barricading After Fish Deaths - VIDEO

Mumbai: Thousands of worshippers gathered on the final day of Pitru Paksha to perform Shraddh rituals at the historic Banganga Tank in Malabar Hill on Saturday. The tank, a centuries-old site, remained barricaded following the tragic death of hundreds of fish earlier this month. Videos circulating on social media depicted devotees solemnly gathering at the revered location to pay homage to their ancestors.

The civic authorities had erected temporary barricades on Thursday night to restrict access to the tank's waters and prevent ritual offerings in the aftermath of the fish deaths. The fish mortality was reportedly linked to a sharp decline in dissolved oxygen levels in the water, which experts believe may have been caused by ritual offerings and pollution.

Pitru Paksha, a fortnight dedicated to honoring deceased ancestors in Hindu tradition, ran from September 26 to October 10 this year. In response to the ecological concerns raised by the fish deaths, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) installed ten artificial tanks around the Banganga Tank to facilitate the rituals while safeguarding the water body.

The municipal councillor for ward D-219, Sunny Sanap, explained that these artificial tanks utilize water sourced from the sacred tank itself, ensuring the continuity of the ancient tradition while addressing the environmental challenges.