Hyderabad: As the streets of Hyderabad resonate with the lively beats of ‘dhol’ and ‘marfa,’ devotees have commenced their heartfelt farewell to Lord Ganesh. In an earnest endeavor to promote eco-friendly idol immersions, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has established 74 artificial ponds across six zones for immersing small and medium-sized idols.
These artificial ponds, strategically distributed, comprise 24 portable ponds, 22 excavated water tanks, and 28 baby ponds within the twin cities. This initiative aims not only to provide convenience to devotees by offering easily accessible immersion sites but also to safeguard the city’s precious water bodies. Officials have specified that portable water ponds are approximately five feet deep, while the excavated tanks have a depth of six feet. Furthermore, baby ponds have been refurbished and adorned with vibrant colors.
The Serilingampally zone boasts the highest number of artificial ponds, including three portable water tanks at Quarry Land, PJR Stadium, and Saki Cheruvu, as well as three excavated tanks at Rahmath Nagar, Miyapur, and Patancheru. Additionally, it features eight baby ponds located near water bodies such as Durgam Cheruvu, Malkam Cheruvu, and others.
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In the Khairatabad zone, there are five portable ponds situated at Nampally Exhibition Grounds, Goshamahal Police Grounds, and various other locations, along with five excavated water tanks and two baby ponds at Neknampur and Necklace Road.
The LB Nagar zone has four portable ponds, four excavated water tanks, and five baby ponds. The Charminar Zone is equipped with 11 artificial ponds, including three portable, five excavated tanks, and three baby ponds.
Meanwhile, the Kukatpally zone features three portable water tanks, two excavated water tanks at Fox Sagar and Venus Enclave playground, and seven baby ponds located at various sites, including Mulkatwa Cheruvu and IDL Lake.
Following the completion of the immersion rituals, all idols and remnants, such as flowers and leaves, will be collected and transported to a dedicated treatment facility. This approach ensures the diversion of all waste away from water bodies, thus mitigating water pollution. Approximately 10,500 sanitation workers will operate in three shifts, working tirelessly round-the-clock to transfer immersed idols from these artificial ponds.
