“Joint Efforts to Protect Ecology and Tradition: Hyderabad Police and GHMC Ensure a Safe and Eco-Friendly Ganesh Visarjan”
Hyderabad, September 10, 2024: In a coordinated effort to safeguard the ecological integrity of Hussain Sagar Lake and ensure public safety during the Ganesh Visarjan, Hyderabad Police and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) have intensified measures to enforce the ban on Ganesh idol immersion at the Tank Bund area. The enforcement follows a directive from the Hon’ble High Court of Telangana, which has called for stringent action to prevent further environmental damage to one of Hyderabad’s most iconic lakes.
The decision to ban idol immersion at Tank Bund is a direct response to years of environmental degradation caused by the practice. The use of plaster of Paris (PoP) idols coated with harmful chemicals, as well as the mass dumping of other materials into the lake, has raised serious concerns about water pollution and its impact on aquatic life. Recognizing the need to protect this vital water body, the High Court mandated the authorities to take all necessary precautions to ensure compliance with the ban.
On Tuesday, both Hyderabad Police and GHMC undertook a comprehensive campaign, placing large banners and signages around the Tank Bund area and its surroundings. The banners clearly state: “No Idol Immersion on Tank Bund as per orders of the Hon’ble High Court of Telangana State,” serving as a public notice to warn and dissuade devotees from attempting idol immersions at the site. The strategic placement of these banners aims to raise awareness among the public and reduce any unintentional violations of the ban.
In addition to the informational banners, authorities have taken physical measures to enforce the prohibition. Iron barricades have been installed along the perimeter of the lake to prevent any unauthorized attempts to immerse idols. These barricades not only act as a physical deterrent but also assist in crowd management during the peak of the festival. With the Ganesh Visarjan known to attract thousands of devotees, ensuring a smooth and safe celebration has become a top priority for both the Hyderabad Police and GHMC.
To ensure that the ban is strictly adhered to, Hyderabad Police has deployed additional personnel across the Tank Bund area. These officers will actively monitor the situation, manage crowds, and respond quickly to any attempts to violate the court’s orders. A senior police official, speaking on the preparedness, said, “We have made all the necessary arrangements to handle the large crowds expected during Ganesh Visarjan. Our focus is on maintaining peace, ensuring public safety, and preventing any idol immersions in the restricted areas. We urge the public to cooperate and respect the High Court’s decision.”
Alternative Immersion Sites and Portable Ponds Set Up
In response to the High Court’s directive and in the interest of preserving the lake, authorities have provided alternative solutions for idol immersion. GHMC has established several designated locations and portable ponds across Hyderabad, making it easier for devotees to conduct the Visarjan in an eco-friendly manner without causing harm to the environment.
The GHMC has set up a total of 73 portable ponds, spread across different zones of the city, to cater to the needs of devotees. These ponds include:
- 27 baby ponds built inside existing lakes to accommodate smaller idols
- 24 portable prefabricated water tanks that can be relocated as needed
- 22 excavated ponds specifically designed for safe immersion practices
These immersion ponds are equipped to handle idols ranging from 2 to 6 feet in height, providing a practical and sustainable alternative to immersing them in Hussain Sagar. Authorities have made it a point to ensure that these ponds are easily accessible to the public and are spread out across various parts of the city to minimize congestion and ensure convenience.
To promote the use of these alternative sites, both Hyderabad Police and GHMC have launched awareness campaigns, urging the public to cooperate with the new guidelines. Announcements and informational pamphlets are being distributed to educate devotees about the environmental impact of traditional idol immersion and the importance of using eco-friendly alternatives. Additionally, volunteers have been stationed at key locations to guide and assist devotees during the immersion process.
Public Appeals for Compliance
As the festival draws near, Hyderabad Police and GHMC have made repeated appeals to the public to cooperate with the authorities and adhere to the court’s orders. They have emphasized that while religious rituals are an important part of the festival, it is equally important to respect the law and act responsibly towards the environment. By using the designated immersion sites and portable ponds, devotees can continue their religious traditions without harming the natural resources of the city.
The authorities have also issued strict warnings to anyone attempting to violate the ban. Legal action will be taken against those found disobeying the court’s order, including fines and penalties. However, the primary focus remains on public cooperation, with the hope that awareness and civic responsibility will lead to a peaceful and eco-friendly Ganesh Visarjan this year.
