Thane, June 5: To mark World Environment Day, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) launched a progressive eco-friendly initiative at the Biodiversity Park in Hiranandani Estate, aiming to boost the adoption of traditional Shadu (natural) clay Ganesha idols.
The event featured live idol-making demonstrations by expert sculptors and was open to the public. High-ranking officials, including Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao and Chief Environment Officer Manisha Pradhan, attended the launch to underscore the critical need for sustainable celebrations.
Commissioner Rao expressed strong optimism, projecting a fivefold increase in the use of eco-friendly idols this season through heightened community awareness.
Support for local artisans
To actively support local artisans, the TMC is offering free stalls and raw materials on a "first-come, first-served" basis. Interested sculptors must submit their applications to respective ward committee offices by June 15, 2026.
Following an administrative scrutiny process, the allocation of spaces and clay will be completed by July 15, 2026. Notably, the corporation has already secured 12 tons of Shadu clay through its Women’s Self-Help Group laboratory.
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Awareness and community outreach
Looking ahead, the civic body plans to decentralize its awareness campaigns. Chief Environment Officer Pradhan announced that targeted educational drives will commence in schools and colleges this July, followed by interactive residential workshops within housing societies starting in August.
These community outreaches will be heavily supported by informational workshops and street plays to ensure sustainable practices take root across the city before the upcoming festival.
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