In the bustling city of Vasai-Virar, located on the outskirts of Mumbai, the local government has decided to take a significant step towards environmental conservation. As the annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival approaches, a festival deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Maharashtra, the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation has introduced a series of stringent measures to promote eco-friendly celebrations.
This year, the corporation has imposed a complete ban on Ganesh idols made from Plaster of Paris (PoP). This decision marks a pivotal shift towards sustainability, aiming to reduce the environmental damage caused by the immersion of non-biodegradable materials in local water bodies. The use of PoP has been a long-standing concern among environmentalists, as it contributes significantly to water pollution and harms aquatic life. Instead, artisans and devotees are encouraged to use natural clay (shadu mati) for idol-making. This clay is not only eco-friendly but also easily dissolves in water, minimizing the ecological footprint of the festivities.
The move aligns with the guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board in 2020, emphasizing the need for environmentally sustainable practices in cultural and religious celebrations. The municipal corporation has taken a proactive approach by issuing these directives well in advance—five months before the festival—allowing adequate time for all stakeholders to adapt to the new regulations.
In addition to the ban on PoP idols, the municipal authority has advocated for the use of natural dyes and decorations. These materials are less harmful to the environment compared to their synthetic counterparts, which often contain toxic elements that can leach into the water during idol immersion.
The corporation’s commitment to a greener Ganesh Chaturthi doesn’t stop at regulating idol materials. It has also planned the creation of artificial ponds specifically designed for the immersion of idols. This initiative aims to prevent the pollution of natural water bodies and facilitate easier collection and disposal of materials post-immersion. Furthermore, the collected waste from these artificial ponds is set to be treated and disposed of scientifically within 24 hours of the completion of the festival.
For ensuring compliance with these new regulations, the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation has established dedicated teams for regular inspections and monitoring. These teams, organized on a ward-by-ward basis, are responsible for ensuring that artisans, vendors, and festival committees adhere to the guidelines. The authorities have made it clear that violations of these eco-friendly mandates will attract penalties, underscoring the seriousness with which the municipal corporation is approaching this initiative.
In preparation for the festival, the municipal corporation has also undertaken various public awareness campaigns. These initiatives are designed to educate and encourage local communities, Ganesh Mandals (festival committees), and individual families about the importance of celebrating in an environmentally responsible manner. Workshops and seminars are being conducted to train artisans in crafting idols from natural clay and using eco-friendly paints and materials.
Additionally, the corporation has mandated that the sediment collected from the artificial ponds after the idol immersions should be recycled. This sediment, primarily clay, can be reused by artisans to craft idols for the next year’s festival, thereby promoting a circular economy approach within the local artisan community.
The shift to eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Vasai-Virar reflects a growing awareness and responsibility towards environmental issues in India. By adopting these measures, the municipal corporation hopes to set a precedent that other cities might follow. It is a step towards reconciling the rich cultural traditions of India with the urgent need for environmental conservation.
As the festival draws near, the streets of Vasai-Virar are abuzz with anticipation and a new sense of purpose. Artisans are adapting their craft to comply with the new norms, and local residents are preparing to celebrate one of their favorite festivals in a manner that contributes positively to the environment. This initiative by the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation is not just about compliance; it’s about making each celebration count for more, ensuring that the joy of today does not lead to the environmental costs of tomorrow. Through these efforts, Ganesh Chaturthi in Vasai-Virar is set to be a beacon of sustainable celebration.
