Citizens’ Participation Earns Praise from Authorities
Vasai-Virar :- Vasai-Virar City’s Ganesh festival has emerged as the most environmentally friendly in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, with a remarkable 60% of immersions occurring in artificial ponds. In recognition of the citizens’ dedication to environmental conservation, local officials have expressed their gratitude.
Compared to other municipalities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Vasai-Virar City’s Ganesh festival stands out as a paragon of environmental consciousness. A significant factor in this distinction is the use of artificial ponds for idol immersions. Recognizing the importance of environmental protection, Vasai-Virar’s citizens responded positively to the municipal authorities’ call to action.
While some opted for clay idols, others chose to immerse their idols in the safety of their homes. This eco-friendly initiative, known as “Eco Ganeshotsav 2023,” was put forth by the municipality. To ensure its success, the authorities conducted extensive public awareness campaigns, engaging various political parties and Ganesh festival committees. The citizens’ cooperative response led to immersing 105 Ganesh idols in 55 artificial ponds during the ten-day festival.
This eco-friendly approach, which resulted in a total of 60% immersions taking place in artificial ponds, surpasses the efforts of other municipalities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Citizens’ active participation in taking the festival to a new level of environmental responsibility has garnered significant appreciation from Anilkumar Pawar, the Municipal Commissioner.
Pawar expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the citizens of Vasai-Virar, including elected representatives, political leaders, bureaucrats, journalists, and all Ganesh festival committees. He commended their active involvement and public awareness initiatives, which contributed to making Ganeshotsav an environmentally responsible tradition.
With the overwhelming support received this year, officials believe that the tradition of environmentally friendly Ganesh festivals in Vasai-Virar will continue to thrive in the coming years. The Municipal Commissioner, Anilkumar Pawar, conveyed his optimism, stating that this cooperative effort has set an example for future generations, emphasizing the importance of environmental preservation.
In Vasai-Virar City, the devotion to Lord Ganesha now extends beyond religious sentiments to include a deep commitment to the preservation of nature. The success of this year’s Eco Ganeshotsav 2023 serves as a testament to the city’s dedication to maintaining a harmonious balance between tradition and the environment.
