Citizens impressed with steps taken for eco-friendly immersion

Nagpur: Citizens bid adieu to Lord Ganesh on the first day of visarjan in a traditional way while following norms like idol immersion in only artifical tanks and largely maintained the Covid-19 protocols.

TOI spoke to citizens at immersion points at Futala and Sonegaon lakes. Appreciating the arrangements done by the civic authorities, Vaibhav Gundawar, a hospital administrator, said that it was ensured that all protocols were followed and there was no crowding or inconvenience caused to devotees. “There is a nirmalya kalash at several places. I saw many people wearing their masks properly and carrying sanitizers,” he said.

Gundawar believes the visarjan will be done very smoothly and in an eco-friendly manner and appreciated the efforts taken by NMC and volunteers.

According to a student, Kaiwalya Joshi, this year the authorities are very strict about not letting immersion of idols in the lake. “There are artificial tanks everywhere and proper arrangements have been made for a smooth and crowd-free ritual. People are following all the rules as there is fear of the projected third wave.”

Appreciating the steps taken by the authorities, Namdeo Thombare, a sub-divisional engineer said that those will ensure a smooth visarjan in the next nine days. “If these efforts continue, there will be no damage to the environment. Authorities here are not only concerned about Covid-19 but also are spreading awareness regarding dengue, which is the need of the hour,” he said.

Pankaj Rai, an advertising professional, observed that this year there are barricades to prevent immersion of idols in the lakes. He also appreciated the volunteers who are doing a “great job by preventing the people from immersing idols in the lake”.

Smita Gondse, a teacher, was impressed with cleanliness and hygiene maintained by the authorities and volunteers at Futala lake. “People are not dumping garbage and are making proper use of the bins placed at various spots,” she said.

Businessman Sohan Yadav said, “I feel everything is going well as people are following rules and are not throwing garbage. The team looking after nirmalya collection at Futala lake was very friendly and helpful.”

(With inputs from Dhriti Khatri and Hatim Hussain)