Navi Mumbai: In preparation for Ganeshotsav, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has undertaken a significant environmental initiative by constructing 136 artificial immersion ponds across the city. This effort is part of the campaign for an eco-friendly and plastic-free Ganeshotsav, led by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde.

The artificial ponds are strategically located throughout the municipal area to ensure convenient access for residents. This initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of traditional idol immersion practices, which often lead to the pollution of natural water sources. The ponds are designed to facilitate the immersion of Ganesh idols made from eco-friendly materials, thereby minimizing pollution.

As per the details, from the civic body, 26 artificial ponds have been created in Nerul ward following it 19 artificial ponds has been created at CBD Belapur, while 18 artificial ponds has been created at Airoli ward, similarly 17 and 16 artificial ponds has been developed in Turbhe and Vashi nodes, while in Koparkhairane and Ghansoli each 15 artificial ponds have been created and in Digha 10 ponds have been created.

These ponds are being constructed at various locations, including public grounds, parks, and open spaces, to ensure easy accessibility for devotees. For instance, in Belapur, the ponds are located near prominent areas like Yashwantrao Chavan Maidan and Radha Krishna Garden, while in Nerul, sites include Gawdevi Maidan and Chincholi Lake. Similar arrangements are made across other divisions, including Vashi, Turbhe, Koparkhairane, Ghansoli, Airoli, and Digha.

In addition to the immersion ponds, the Municipal Corporation is promoting the use of environmentally friendly Ganesh idols made from natural materials, as opposed to plaster of Paris, and urging citizens to avoid plastic and thermocol decorations. The Commissioner has also emphasized using reusable materials like cloth and paper for decorations and limiting the volume of sound from processions to avoid noise pollution.

To facilitate the celebration, the NMMC has waived fees for the construction of Ganeshotsav mandaps and has implemented a five-year permission policy. An online facility for mandap permissions has been well received by 176 Ganeshotsav mandals.

Dr. Kailas Shinde's appeal to celebrate an eco-friendly Ganeshotsav is gaining positive traction, reflecting Navi Mumbai’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The artificial ponds not only help in managing the immersion process but also contribute to reducing the pollution load on natural water bodies, aligning with Navi Mumbai’s reputation as an eco-conscious and clean city.