6,103 small, 1,461 large Ganesha idols immersed
   Date :21-Sep-2024

Idol immersions under way at Mahadev Ghat
 
Staff Reporter
 
RAIPUR
 
A total of 6,103 small idols and 1,461 large idols were immersed by devotees in the immersion pond. This marked 62 hours of continuous immersion activity from the early hours of September 17 until 2 PM on September 20. A large gathering of devotees continued at the immersion tank near Mahadev Ghat in Raipur, as idol immersions of Lord Ganesh took place on the occasion of Anant Chaturdashi. The festival marked the culmination of the ten-day Ganeshotsav, and devotees came in significant numbers to bid farewell to their beloved deity. The Municipal Corporation of Raipur had made extensive arrangements for the immersion, including cranes and rolling machines to assist in the safe and organised immersion of the idols. The event was supported by the Municipal Corporation in collaboration with the Raipur District Police Administration, in compliance with directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Chhattisgarh State Environment Protection Board. A special cleaning drive was carried out around the immersion site by the Municipal Corporation’s Health Department, with teams of Safai Mitras working continuously to maintain cleanliness. Worship waste, such as flowers and garlands, was swiftly removed to ensure the area remained clean throughout the immersion process.
 
The Swachhata Signature Campaign, part of the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan, was also conducted at the site to raise awareness about the importance of cleanliness. This campaign engaged devotees, encouraging them to sign and pledge their commitment to cleanliness. Municipal Corporation Commissioner Abinash Mishra had previously issued instructions to ensure the smooth functioning of the immersion process, and a committee was formed to oversee the arrangements. The administration provided all necessary support, including cranes, divers, fire brigades, and first aid medical camps, ensuring the safety and convenience of the devotees. Zone-wise duty shifts for officers and employees were set from September 17 to 23, with three shifts of eight hours each, ensuring round-the-clock immersion management. With the conclusion of the immersion activities, the devotees bid an emotional farewell to Lord Ganesh, marking the end of yet another successful Ganeshotsav in Raipur.