Navi Mumbai: A total of 6,154 Ganesh idols were immersed peacefully across Navi Mumbai on the fifth day of Ganeshotsav, with citizens giving priority to artificial immersion ponds in line with the High Court’s directions on environmental protection.

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) had set up 156 artificial immersion ponds along with 33 natural immersion sites, creating 189 facilities across the city. The civic body’s appeal for an eco-friendly and plastic-free Ganeshotsav received a positive response from residents.

Among the total immersions, 1,444 idols made of Shadu clay were immersed in an environmentally responsible manner. Citizens who installed eco-friendly Shadu clay idols were honoured as ‘Environment Friends’ by NMMC with appreciation certificates signed by Mayor Sujata Patil, civic officials and Municipal Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde.

The Belapur, Nerul, Vashi, Turbhe, Koparkhairane, Ghansoli, Airoli and Digha divisions recorded smooth immersion arrangements. Civic officials, volunteers, lifeguards and medical teams were deployed at immersion sites to ensure safety and convenience.

The NMMC had arranged rafts and experienced volunteers at 22 natural immersion spots for idols above six feet. Separate facilities were provided for wet and dry nirmalya collection, with arrangements made for its proper disposal.

Citizens appreciated the civic body’s arrangements, including artificial ponds, lighting, medical facilities and crowd management. The NMMC thanked residents for following court guidelines and urged them to continue using artificial immersion ponds during the upcoming Ganpati and Gauri immersion days.