Belapur: Following the Durga idol immersions on October 20 and 21, floating floral offerings, plastic waste, and dead fish were reported in Agroli Lake, raising severe environmental concerns. The Sajag Nagrik Manch has urged civic authorities to conduct urgent water sampling and assess the impact on aquatic life.

The citizens’ group questioned the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s (NMMC) preparedness, pointing out that while artificial immersion ponds are provided during Ganeshotsav under judicial directions, comparable safeguards were lacking during Navratri. The forum requested a thorough investigation into Agroli Lake and other local water bodies.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of protecting natural water bodies during religious festivities. Local activist Sudhir Dani emphasised, “Dead fish found in the lake also raised concern, though the actual cause of death of fish will have to be examined.” He called on the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to evaluate dissolved oxygen levels and contaminants to establish the exact cause.

The Manch urged coordinated action between NMMC and MPCB to analyse water samples promptly. It also advocated for a comprehensive, legally compliant immersion policy covering all religious festivals.

Advocate Himanshu Katkar, legal adviser to the forum, said, “Where designated nirmalya collection urns are available, appropriate legal action should also be taken against those who deliberately throw religious offerings into lakes along with plastic bags, in accordance with applicable law.” Katkar added that NMMC must launch public awareness campaigns, emphasising shared environmental responsibility.

The forum concluded that NMMC’s ‘Lake Vision’ initiative must prioritise ecological restoration over mere beautification.