Mira-Bhayandar: In a bid to promote environment sustainability and safeguarding the marine eco-system by preventing pollution in lakes and other natural water bodies, the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has launched an innovative initiative named “Bappa Majha Shaducha” (My Ganesh Idol Made of Shadu Clay) well ahead of the 10-day Ganesh Utsav festivities which will be celebrated from 27, August, this year.
Civic Administration Organises Interactive Session
An interactive session to chalk-out further plans for celebrating the festivities in an environmentally friendly manner was organised by the civic administration on Friday which registered an active participation of various stakeholders including members of Ganeshotsav mandals, sculptors, idol sellers, social activists, environmentalists and local citizens. The main point of discussion was to ensure the switchover from Plaster-of-Paris (PoP) made idols to eco-friendly alternatives like white clay (shadu mati).
Despite the Bombay High Court enforcing a complete ban, hundreds of Lord Ganesh idols made from non-biodegradable PoP were immersed in natural water bodies in the twin-city causing toxic pollution last year. Apart from discussions on important topics aimed at getting rid of pollution, the participating members agreed upon the proposal mooted by municipal commissioner Sanjay Katkar for organising a Bappa Katta (informal gathering) every month to ensure public participation in formulating policies related to celebrate the festival in a safe and pollution free atmosphere while preserving the piousness and sacredness of Ganesh-Utsav.
“A policy for an environmentally friendly Ganeshotsav is being drafted. All stakeholders including the citizens should actively participate by giving their suggestions to help prepare this policy,” appealed Katkar.
Notably, the court has also issued directions to the government for diligently following the guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) regarding the immersion of Plaster of Paris (PoP)-made idols which include use of artificial ponds/tanks to minimise environmental damage by curbing water pollution.
