Ganeshotsav 2026: Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde On Eco-Friendly Celebrations, Immersion Arrangements And Noise Rules | FPJ Interview
With Mumbai gearing up for Ganeshotsav 2026, the city’s first citizen is preparing to welcome Bappa at the Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde's bungalow for the first time in the mayoral tenure. From using natural clay and chemical-free colours to opting for an artificial immersion pond, the focus is on celebrating the festival while protecting the environment. In an interaction, the Mayor spoke about…
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde has shared her vision for eco-friendly Ganeshotsav celebrations in the city. For the first time as Mayor, the honor of hosting Lord Ganesha at her residence marks a spiritual and joyful occasion. The focus this year is on sustainable festivities that protect the environment.
The idol for the mayoral celebration is crafted from natural clay and adorned with colors that are free from chemicals. Aaras and makhar decorations avoid the use of thermocol and single-use plastics, instead utilizing fresh flowers and reusable materials. The immersion ritual will take place in an artificial pond situated within the Mayor's residence, ensuring that soil and water are repurposed for gardening and plant care.
Inspections of immersion sites across Mumbai have been conducted, with directives issued to maintain pothole-free routes, provide necessary civic amenities, and ensure the presence of certified lifeguards at artificial ponds. The Mayor emphasizes the importance of following High Court guidelines and the Central Pollution Control Board's regulations, which prohibit the use of Plaster of Paris (PoP) and the disposal of idols in natural water bodies.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is dedicated to adhering to these directives and promoting alternative methods, such as offering free natural clay and colors to sculptors registered with the BMC. Efforts will be made to ensure that all idols up to 6 feet are immersed in designated artificial ponds.
Mumbai boasts 67 natural immersion sites, comprising 44 seafronts and jetties along with 23 natural lakes and inland water bodies. The city has installed ramps, boardwalks, and floating jetties to ensure safe access to these sites. Hydraulic cranes are positioned at major beaches to manage large idols, and a high-definition CCTV network is connected to the Mumbai Police control room for surveillance.
The Mayor appeals to the citizens of Mumbai to embody Lord Ganesha's role as Vighnaharta, or the remover of obstacles. By safeguarding the environment during the festive season, Mumbaikars can honor the legacy of Bappa and foster a green festival movement.
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