18 spots for green immersions this yr …..Manthan K Mehta
Mumbai: This Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees can immerse idols at 18 artificial spots across Mumbai. Last year, a total of 8,383 idols were immersed in artificial immersion ponds across Mumbai. Of these, 175 idols belonged to sarvajanik mandals, while 8,202 were household idols. This year, the BMC expects this figure to touch the 15,000 mark.
Besides the BMC, local resident groups have come forward to set up eco-friendly immersion spots in their neighborhood. Says Anandini Thakoor, chairperson, Khar Residents Association, Despite the poor response lastyear, we are going ahead with plans to set up artificial ponds in our area. Arrangements have been made for the pre-immersion puja.
The association has made announcements about this facility through local cable and radio channels. Locals can immerse idols at this artificial pond at Gazdar Bandh Municipal School, near Rajesh Khanna Park, Santacruz (w).
A similar facility has been set up at Nana Nani Park in Pestom Sagar, Chembur. Dr Vijay Sangole, joint secretary, Pestom Sagar Citizens Forum said, We are providing this facility every Ganesh Chaturthi for eight years. Last year, 500 idols were immersed at the facility. People come from as far Ghatkopar, Vikhroli and Kurla. The nirmalya (flowers) is converted into compost.
At Khotwadi, Santacruz (W), local residents will be using water collected from rain water harvesting for immersion. Says Dayanand Mohite of Triratna Prerana Mandal, Every year, the BMC would provide us water. However, from this year, not only are we using rainwater, but the same water, post-immersion, will be used to recharge the groundwater table.
Ward Wise
M-West | Pestom Sagar, Chembur
P-North | Ramleela Maidan, Ganesh Lane, Malad
R-Central | PG Plot, Kulupwadi
H-West | Gazdar Municipal School, 17th road
H-West | Khotwadi, Santacruz (W)