Alandi civic body collects 7k idols as residents support efforts to keep Indrayani clean

Pune: Alandi Municipal Council’s appeal for an environment-friendly Ganeshotsav succeeded after devotees handed over 7,000 idols and two tonnes of nirmalya (floral and other religious offerings) instead of immersing them in Indrayani river.The civic body that urged residents to curb river pollution built immersion tanks and arranged to collect idols at designated points across Alandi. Pollution is a concern, particularly during Ganeshotsav, when a large number of idols are immersed in the river.Alandi resident Swapnil Kamble said, “The arrangements gave devotees an option to follow tradition without adding to river pollution. We were happy to hand over the idol for an eco-friendly immersion.”The civic administration put up barricades at several points along the river and deployed volunteers to guide devotees and prevent direct immersion. Collection centres at different locations in the town where idols could be handed over were open since early morning.“Our officials and volunteers worked together to ensure that the collected idols were shifted to designated facilities. They were taken to Siddhabet Meditation Hall at the municipal water purification centre for further processing,” chief officer of the council Madhav Khandekar said.Council president Prashant Kurhade said people have realised that celebrating Ganeshotsav responsibly does not mean giving up tradition. “Using artificial tanks and handing over nirmalya separately can protect Indrayani,” he added.This was the eighth consecutive year when the council planned eco-friendly immersions. They also have to protect the collected idols. “A few years ago, the treatment of the idols hurt the sentiments of people and devotees. The council must keep a watch to prevent any such incidents,” activist Vilas Kate said.