The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled a series of eco-friendly measures aimed at transforming the celebration into a model of sustainability. The new plan, introduced at a high-level meeting chaired by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, the Guardian Minister of Mumbai Suburbs District, at BMC headquarters, is set to redefine the festival’s environmental impact.
One of the most innovative aspects of this initiative is the incorporation of artificial lakes into Google Maps. This digital integration is designed to facilitate easier access to these designated immersion points, allowing devotees to locate the nearest lake for eco-friendly Ganesh idol immersion. This move is a significant step towards reducing the environmental footprint traditionally associated with the festival.
The BMC’s strategy also includes the introduction of a streamlined system for granting permissions to public Ganeshotsav Mandals. Under this new one-window scheme, groups that have consistently adhered to regulatory standards for the past decade will receive permission for five consecutive years, thus cutting down on bureaucratic red tape and simplifying the process for organisers. Further supporting the festival’s green credentials, the BMC has announced a home delivery service for eco-friendly Ganesh idols through online platforms. This initiative is expected to significantly diminish the carbon footprint associated with the production and transportation of traditional idols, while promoting sustainable consumption practices.
QR codes will be strategically placed outside mandaps featuring Shri Ganesha idols. These codes will provide real-time information on the nearest artificial lakes, enhancing the ease with which devotees can comply with the new eco-friendly immersion practices. To complement these efforts, the BMC has also augmented the number of mobile toilets at key immersion sites, including Swarajya Bhoomi (Girgaon Chowpatty), Dadar Chowpatty, and Mahim Chowpatty. Set to commence on September 7th, Ganeshotsav 2024 is poised to be a celebration of both festivity and environmental stewardship.
