Navi Mumbai: In a major step towards enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of Ganeshotsav celebrations, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has introduced an e-service system to streamline pavilion permissions. Announced by NMMC Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde, the system enables Ganeshotsav Mandals to obtain free and immediate permits for temporary pavilions, supporting a plastic-free and eco-friendly Ganeshotsav.

This initiative encourages the use of Shadu idols, reusable materials for decorations, and artificial ponds for idol immersion to protect natural water bodies. NMMC has also released an awareness video to promote these eco-conscious practices among citizens.

Dr. Shinde chaired a meeting a month ago with relevant authorities and Ganeshotsav Mandals, where he emphasized the goal of simplifying the permission process through the e-service system. A key highlight of this initiative is the waiver of permit fees, offering significant relief to mandals.

So far, 176 Ganeshotsav Mandals with complete applications have received their pavilion permissions, while 21 others are working to resolve documentation issues. The e-service system has been praised for its efficiency, eliminating the need for mandals to make multiple office visits. Permissions have been issued across various divisions: Koparkhairane (52), Nerul (27), Belapur (26), Airoli (22), Turbhe (19), Vashi (17), Ghansoli (8), and Digha (5).

Moreover, the permissions granted this year are valid for the next five years, as long as mandals obtain annual no-objection certificates from traffic police, local police, and the fire department. This long-term decision has been widely welcomed by the mandals, offering them stability and peace of mind for future celebrations.