The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) will set up 170 artificial immersion ponds across the city for Ganeshotsav, urging citizens to opt for eco-friendly celebrations and avoid immersing idols in natural water bodies.
The civic body has appealed to residents to immerse Ganesh idols in nearby artificial ponds, particularly in accordance with court directions and Maharashtra government guidelines. Idols up to six feet in height are required to be immersed in artificial ponds, the civic administration said.
Mayor Sujata Patil and Municipal Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde have appealed to citizens to celebrate an eco-friendly, plastic-free Ganeshotsav by choosing idols made of natural shadu clay instead of plaster of Paris (PoP).
The NMMC said the 170 artificial immersion ponds are being created to ensure that residents have convenient immersion facilities close to their homes and to reduce pressure on the city's natural water bodies. The number of artificial ponds has been increased from last year.
The ponds are being established across the civic body's eight administrative divisions. These include 22 in Belapur, 29 in Nerul, 16 in Vashi, 21 in Turbhe, 16 in Koparkhairane, 16 in Ghansoli, 25 in Airoli and 25 in Digha, including villages, taking the total to 170.
The NMMC has also urged Ganesh mandals and residents to completely avoid plastic and thermocol for decorations and instead use reusable materials such as cloth and paper. Organisers have been advised to keep music at permissible sound levels and avoid the use of laser lights.
There are 22 traditional immersion sites within the NMMC limits. Artificial ponds have been introduced in recent years to distribute crowds and prevent large gatherings at a single location, while also helping reduce pollution in natural water sources.
The civic administration said both traditional and artificial immersion sites will be equipped with arrangements including volunteers, lifeguards, fire-fighting personnel, electricity, CCTV surveillance, healthcare facilities, drinking water, sanitation and nirmalya collection and transportation. Equipment such as rafts and forklifts will also be deployed.
The NMMC said permission for erecting Ganesh mandals is being provided through a single-window online e-service, with no fee being charged for mandap erection permission.
The civic body has appealed to citizens to preferably conduct idol immersion at home or at the nearest artificial immersion pond and ensure that the festival is celebrated in an environmentally responsible and plastic-free manner.
Also Read: Mumbai: Corporators Demand Withdrawal of 10% Water Cut Ahead of Ganeshotsav
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