As the festive season draws near, Nagpur is gearing up for one of its most awaited celebrations, the Ganesh Festival, beginning September 7, 2024. In a move aimed at promoting eco-friendly festivities, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has announced that all fees for Ganesh Mandals will be waived this year. This decision, backed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, underscores the commitment of the city toward more sustainable and inclusive celebrations.
Why Free Permissions for Ganesh Mandals Matter
The waiver of fees is not just a financial relief; it represents a push towards embracing responsible celebrations. By eliminating the application verification and inspection fees, which typically range from ₹200 to ₹5,000, more Mandals can actively participate in the festivities without being burdened by financial constraints. This inclusivity also helps spread the message of eco-friendly practices among a wider audience.
Fee Waivers and Their Impact on Local Communities
The fee waiver primarily covers:
- Application Verification Fees: ₹200 fee waived.
- Deposits: Ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000, now fully waived.
This move allows even smaller communities to join the celebrations while focusing on environmental responsibility.
Eco-Friendly Guidelines to Steer Ganesh Festival 2024
In line with directives from the Central Pollution Control Board and the High Court, the NMC has laid down several rules and guidelines to ensure that this year’s festival is both grand and green.
1. Ban on Plaster of Paris (POP) Idols
Plaster of Paris (POP) idols, which are non-biodegradable and harmful to water bodies, are strictly banned. Devotees and Mandals are encouraged to opt for clay idols made from eco-friendly materials. This shift to eco-friendly idols not only helps in reducing pollution but also aligns with the larger goal of sustainable celebrations.
2. One Complex, One Ganapati Initiative
In a bid to reduce waste and streamline the celebration process, residential complexes are encouraged to adopt the “One Complex, One Ganapati” concept. This initiative promotes community bonding while also reducing the overall environmental impact.
3. Noise Control Regulations
Processions and public events during the festival are required to adhere to controlled noise levels. The guidelines mandate the use of low-decibel sound systems, ensuring that the festivities do not contribute to noise pollution.
4. Restrictions on Idol Immersions
To protect natural water bodies from pollution, idol immersions in lakes and rivers are strictly prohibited. The NMC has provided artificial ponds across the city to facilitate environmentally safe immersions. Additionally, public Ganesh Mandals with idols over 4 feet tall must arrange for immersions outside municipal limits and acquire the necessary permissions for processions.
Encouragement for Health and Awareness Campaigns
The NMC is urging Ganesh Mandals to prioritize health-related activities and awareness campaigns during the festival. From malaria and dengue prevention drives to waste segregation initiatives, the focus this year is on making the festival not only joyous but also socially beneficial.
5. Immersion Site Preparations
To ensure smooth and safe immersions, the NMC will provide adequate lighting, safety measures, and barricades around immersion sites. Fire safety personnel and swimmers will be deployed at key locations to manage any emergencies.
6. Compliance with Safety and Environmental Regulations
While fees have been waived, Ganesh Mandals are still required to comply with existing regulations. This includes following fire safety guidelines, acquiring the necessary licenses, and adhering to bans on single-use plastics and thermocol.
The Broader Implications of NMC’s Initiatives
This decision by the NMC reflects a shift toward more responsible and environmentally conscious celebrations. The response from local communities and Ganesh Mandals has been overwhelmingly positive, as many see this as a significant step forward in balancing tradition with modern environmental concerns.
A Greener Ganesh Festival in 2024
The waiver of fees and the introduction of eco-friendly guidelines signify a turning point for Ganesh celebrations in Nagpur. As the city embraces these changes, it’s clear that the focus is on creating a festive atmosphere that is both inclusive and sustainable. By prioritizing environmental health and public safety, Nagpur is setting an example for other cities to follow.
1. Why did the NMC decide to waive fees for Ganesh Mandals in 2024?
The decision was made to encourage wider participation and promote eco-friendly celebrations in line with environmental regulations.
2. What are the guidelines for using idols during the festival?
The use of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols is banned. Devotees are urged to use clay or other eco-friendly materials for making idols.
3. How will idol immersions be managed this year?
Idols must be immersed in artificial ponds set up by the NMC. Public Mandals with larger idols are required to manage immersions outside municipal limits.
4. Are there any noise restrictions during the festival?
Yes, the NMC has imposed strict noise control regulations to limit noise pollution during processions and public events.
5. What kind of health and awareness campaigns are encouraged by the NMC?
Mandals are encouraged to run campaigns focusing on health issues like malaria and dengue, along with waste segregation and other community-centric initiatives.
