BMC Enhances Artificial Lakes for Smooth Ganesh Idol Immersions
In a bid to ensure smooth and organised Ganesh idol immersions during the “Maghi Ganeshotsav,” the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its efforts by deepening artificial immersion sites and extending their operational timelines. These measures aim to accommodate the immersions of plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idols and provide a hassle-free process for public celebrations.
To further facilitate this, the BMC has decided to keep the artificial lakes operational for two additional days beyond the customary 11th day of the festival, ensuring that any delayed immersions are not hindered. In coordination with the Mumbai Police, the civic body has also mapped out specific routes for immersion processions, ensuring they proceed smoothly and without disruptions. While the civic body’s stance against the immersion of PoP idols in natural water bodies remains firm, some Ganeshotsav mandals expressed concerns over the capacity of artificial lakes. According to the mandals, these lakes are only sufficient for idols up to 5 feet in height, leaving larger idols—sometimes as tall as 15 to 20 feet—unable to fit in. In response to these concerns, the BMC has taken significant steps to deepen the lakes, particularly in key locations to accommodate larger idols.
Among the key areas that have seen improvements is the artificial lake at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, which can now house idols up to 15 feet tall. Similarly, other artificial lakes have been adjusted to meet the needs of the festival: the one at Dahisar Sports Foundation accommodates idols up to 6 feet, while Maharana Pratap Udyan in Kandivli (East) offers the same capacity. Kadamwadi Ground, on the other hand, now features a large artificial lake that can accommodate idols up to 19 feet tall. Dr. Bhagyashree Kapse, Deputy Municipal Commissioner of Zone 7, confirmed that only nine Ganesh idols remain to be immersed in areas such as Charkop, Kandivli, Borivali, and Dahisar. The adjustments to the artificial lakes were made based on the size of the idols, ensuring that the immersion process is as smooth as possible.
Furthermore, the BMC has created a 30×30-foot artificial lake at Bangur Nagar in Goregaon to further assist in the immersion process. By planning the immersion routes and enhancing lake capacities, the BMC aims to reduce congestion and ensure the safety of the participants and public during the immersion processions.
