Navi Mumbai: Despite crores spent on setting up artificial ponds for eco-friendly Ganesh idol immersion, most of these facilities were built right next to natural lakes a move that according to citizen groups in Navi Mumbai has rendered the entire effort ineffective.
RTI Reveals Nearly ₹2 Crore Spent on Temporary Ponds
According to RTI data obtained by Sajag Nagarik Manch, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) spent nearly Rs 2 crore during Ganeshotsav 2024 on creating temporary artificial ponds across various wards. These included Rs 46.57 lakh in Ghansoli, Rs 58.73 lakh in Airoli, and Rs 15.70 lakh in Belapur.
"The expenses covered construction of immersion ponds, barricading, stone dust laying, immersion sheds, nirmalya collection facilities, and awareness banners," said organiser of Sajag Nagarik Manch, Sudhir Dani.
99% Devotees Opted for Natural Water Bodies
However, ground-level observations indicate that a majority of these artificial ponds were constructed adjacent to natural lakes — making them practically redundant. As a result, nearly 99% of devotees chose to immerse their idols in the nearby natural water bodies, bypassing the artificial alternatives completely
"This defeats the very purpose of pollution control. If an artificial pond is placed right next to a natural one, why would people opt for it?" questioned Dani. “The placement strategy needs a complete rethink.”
Citizen Groups Contest NMMC’s 51% Artificial Pond Usage Claim
While NMMC had claimed that 51% of idol immersions took place in artificial ponds, citizen volunteers monitoring the sites have strongly contested these numbers. They pointed out that in areas where artificial ponds were not adjacent to lakes, the public response was notably better.
High Court Directive Being Ignored, Say Activists
The High Court has directed that idols up to 6 feet must be immersed in artificial ponds to prevent pollution in natural water bodies. Yet, poor planning and lack of enforcement have resulted in widespread non-compliance.
Forum Recommends Strategic Planning for Ganeshotsav 2025
Advocate Sushant Pramod Joshi, a forum member, emphasized that for the upcoming Ganeshotsav 2025, the civic body must ensure artificial ponds are located away from lakes and rivers, in easily accessible yet environmentally strategic locations. “Strategic placement, not symbolic presence, will drive effective implementation,” he said.
The forum also called for the appointment of security guards near natural lakes during the festival to strictly prevent idol immersion at those spots, in line with court directives.
Other suggestions from the Manch include:
. Extensive awareness campaigns through schools, colleges, and housing societies on the environmental impact of lake immersion.
. Visible signage at idol-selling stalls promoting clay idols and artificial pond use.
. Enhanced facilities at artificial pond sites, such as parking, lighting, and volunteer support.
. Publishing a digital map of artificial pond locations for public convenience.
“Public money is being spent, but unless there’s careful planning and community involvement, the goal of protecting our natural water bodies will not be achieved,” said Rajaram Jadhav of the forum.
