To fix this, some states have determined that Ganesh idols taller than 6 toes should be immersed most effectively in synthetic tanks. This step enables us to keep rivers, lakes, and seas clean. It’s a way of pronouncing: We love Lord Ganesha, and we also love our planet. Let’s explore how this rule makes Ganeshotsav better for nature — without reducing the excitement or spirit of the festival.
Why is the State Pushing for Fake Inundation Tanks?
Why Natural Water Bodies Are in Danger
Each year during Ganesh Chaturthi, thousands of clay, POP, and thermocol icons are immersed in water bodies. Whereas the otherworldly aim is unadulterated, the natural results are alarming.
- POP symbols don’t break up effectively and discharge harmful chemicals.
- Paints used on icons regularly contain lead and mercury, sullying water.
- Leftover blooms, beautifications, and plastic extras choke marine life.
- Lakes and waterways encounter dead angles, diminished oxygen levels, and foul scents post-festival.
- These impact final weeks or indeed months after the celebration.
This is why the government and environmental groups pushed for a safer method: artificial immersion tanks.
What Are Artificial Immersion Tanks?
A Cleaner Way to Perform Visarjan
Artificial tanks are large containers or structures filled with water, built specially for idol immersion during Ganesh Chaturthi. They may be permanent or set up only during the festival.
These tanks are:
- Safe and Clean: Designed to avoid polluting natural water.
- Easy to Use: Located in nearby areas for public convenience.
- Managed Well: Cleaned regularly by municipal teams after immersion.
By using these tanks, devotees can follow tradition without harming nature.
New Rule: 6-Foot Idols Must Use Artificial Tanks
What the State Government Has Announced
To protect the environment, the state has made it mandatory that any Ganesh idol over 6 feet tall must be immersed in artificial tanks only. This rule is now being strictly enforced.
Highlights of the Rule:
- Applies to All Public Pandals: Community mandals with big idols must follow this.
- Better Facilities at Immersion Sites: More artificial tanks, cranes, and safety teams provided.
This rule has been introduced not to limit celebration, but to make it cleaner, safer, and greener.
Use Artificial Tanks for Ganesh Chaturthi
Good for Nature
- Zero Pollution: POP and toxic paint don’t enter natural water.
- Safe for Fish and Marine Life: Keeps aquatic ecosystems wholesome.
- Cleaner Surroundings: No leftover idol portions in rivers or seas.
- Easier Waste Management: Puja items and decorations are collected and treated.
Good for People
- No Overcrowding at Natural Spots: Less risk of drowning or injury.
- Quick and Peaceful Immersion: No lengthy waits or traffic blocks.
- Sense of Responsibility: Teaches children and adults to take care of nature.
- Supports Eco-Friendly Idols: Pushes mandals to use clay idols and herbal colors.
How You Can Support This Eco-Friendly Change
Be a Responsible Devotee
You don’t need to stop celebrating. Just make small changes that help your surroundings.
Tips to Make Your Ganeshotsav Greener:
- Choose Clay Idols: They don't damage water and dissolve readily..
- Avoid Plastic Decorations: Use paper, flowers, cloth, or leaves.
- Use Natural Colors: For painting idols or rangolis.
- Say No to Glitter: It’s plastic and stays within the water for all time.
- Clean Up After Puja: Don’t throw puja gadgets in rivers or tanks.
Read more:- Ganeshotsav Declared a State Festival: What It Means for Maharashtra
Cities That Are Already Doing This Right
Mumbai – A Leading Example
Mumbai has shown that big cities can celebrate big — and still protect the environment.
- In 2024, more than 60% of idols were submerged in man-made tanks.
- The city used more than 150 mobile tanks for better access
- Volunteers and civic teams helped in spreading awareness
Pune and Hyderabad Are Catching Up
- Many societies in Pune chose eco-Ganpati idols
- Schools and colleges ran awareness drives about eco-friendly celebrations
These cities proved that celebration and care for nature can go hand in hand.
What If Devotees Feel Disappointed?
Some people may feel that using artificial tanks isn’t “traditional.” They wonder if Lord Ganesha would approve.
Let’s Clear the Doubts:
- Faith is about feelings, not location.
- Your love doesn’t reduce just because the idol goes in a tank.
- Change is part of every tradition. Even ancient customs evolve with time and knowledge.
Priests, spiritual leaders, and even artists support the eco-friendly change. It’s all about intentions, not just rituals.
What the Future Looks Like
Ganesh Chaturthi is changing — for the better. The new immersion rule is just the beginning of a larger shift toward green celebrations.
In the Coming Years, We May See:
- More people choosing clay or seed-based idols
- Community visarjans at one shared tank instead of multiple small ones
- Cities setting up permanent eco-parks for immersion
- Young children learning about sustainability through festivals
This change will protect both our faith and our environment for generations to come.
Final Words: Devotion with a Green Heart
Ganesh Chaturthi is more than just rituals — it is about love, unity, and hope. By following this rule about 6-ft idols and using artificial tanks, we show that we care about our planet and its future. Let this be a year where we celebrate Ganpati Bappa with both joy and wisdom.
Celebrate with heart. Protect with action. That’s true devotion.
