Mumbai: Ahead of the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festivities, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a public appeal urging citizens to adopt environmentally friendly practices during the celebration and immersion of Lord Ganesha idols. The civic body has released detailed guidelines aimed at reducing environmental damage and ensuring smooth conduct of the festival.
In its appeal, the BMC has encouraged the use of Shadu mati (natural clay) idols, smaller idol sizes and symbolic immersions at home to curb water pollution. Devotees are being requested to avoid Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols, chemical paints and non-biodegradable decorative items, which have a long-lasting negative impact on marine life and water bodies.
Special Arrangements For Public Mandals
For registered public Ganesh Mandals, the BMC has provided a dedicated online booking facility to manage immersion schedules and avoid overcrowding at natural and artificial immersion sites. The online slot booking can be accessed through the official BMC website.
The civic body has urged citizens to immerse idols at designated artificial ponds set up across the city to reduce the load on natural water bodies like lakes, rivers and the sea. For households with small idols, BMC has advised home immersion or use of the nearest artificial pond.
Festival Processions & Safety Measures
Organisers have been reminded to keep processions disciplined, avoid excessive noise and ensure that vehicles and floats meet safety guidelines. The BMC has also appealed for restraint in using loudspeakers and advised organisers to cooperate with the Mumbai Police for traffic and crowd management.
Segregation Of Offerings & Waste Management
The civic body has asked devotees to deposit flowers, garlands and other organic offerings at designated nirmalya kalash (collection bins) placed at immersion points. These offerings will be composted and used for city gardens. Non-biodegradable items should be disposed of separately to facilitate recycling.
Awareness On Legal Compliance
The BMC’s notice highlights that Supreme Court and High Court directives must be followed and violations may attract penalties. Citizens have been asked to avoid actions that harm public health or the environment during the festival.
To further support eco-friendly celebrations, the BMC has made available detailed guidelines, immersion point locations, and slot booking links on its official website. The civic body has urged Mumbaikars to celebrate the festival with devotion while protecting the city’s natural resources.
