Mumbai has been placed on high alert after a chilling WhatsApp message threatened a series of blasts across the city just a day before the culmination of the Ganesh festival. The message, received by the traffic police control room, claimed that 34 vehicles had been rigged with explosives and planted with “human bombs.” It further warned that 400 kg of RDX had been brought into the city, allegedly enough to kill one crore people. The sender identified himself as a member of “Lashkar-e-Jihadi” and claimed that 14 Pakistani terrorists had infiltrated India.

Security tightened across Mumbai

With Anant Chaturthi set to draw lakhs of devotees for Ganesh idol immersions, police and security agencies have stepped up vigil. The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has been alerted and senior officers confirmed that all parking lots, basements, and public spaces are being checked thoroughly. Additional security deployment has been ordered in sensitive areas, and checkpoints have been set up across the city to monitor suspicious vehicles.

Officials urge calm amid investigation

While investigations are ongoing, Mumbai Police has appealed to residents to remain calm and not fall prey to rumours. “Our forces are capable of handling any threat. All preventive actions and security measures are being taken,” a senior officer assured. The threat coincides with one of Mumbai’s most important festivals, making vigilance critical to ensure the safety of citizens. The incident highlights the continuing challenge of terror threats in urban India, especially during large public gatherings.