BMC Distributes 858 Tonnes of Clay to Mumbai Artisans Ahead of Ganpati

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has accelerated the distribution of clay and natural colours to idol makers across Mumbai to promote eco-friendly celebrations ahead of the Ganpati festival.

So far, civic authorities have distributed 858 tonnes of clay and 25,400 litres of natural colours. An additional 200 tonnes of clay are expected to be supplied next week, bringing the total distribution of clay for non-plaster of Paris (POP) idols to around 1,000 tonnes, matching last year's figures. Across the BMC's jurisdiction, 1,136 murtikar mandaps have been established for crafting idols. Despite government efforts to promote clay idols, locally known as shadu murti, officials noted no significant increase in overall clay collection.

The civic body is also enhancing immersion infrastructure after the state government approached the Bombay High Court to continue last year's system, which permits the immersion of idols under six feet in artificial lakes and taller idols in natural water bodies like seas and lakes.

While artificial ponds will be set up across 298 locations, the BMC plans to increase the number of ponds at each site. Locations that previously had a single pond will now have three to four, aiming to encourage eco-friendly immersions and reduce waiting times for devotees.

Following immersion, idol remains will be collected and transported by the civic body to designated locations, including a former dumping ground site in Mulund. Remains from the previous year remain stored at the Mulund site awaiting scientific disposal, as the BMC has yet to float tenders for recycling based on methods recommended by a state-appointed committee.

In addition, the BMC has received 1,885 applications from sarvajanik Ganesh mandals seeking permission to install idols. Officials confirmed that 1,835 permissions have been granted, with the remaining applications currently under joint scrutiny by the BMC and Mumbai police.