Hyderabad is getting ready for the Ganesh idol immersions with a new plan by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). They are focusing on eco-friendly methods this year. GHMC has set up 78 artificial ponds in the city to make the immersions safe and organized.
These ponds come in various forms: 29 baby ponds, 28 portable ponds, and 21 excavation-based ponds. They are spread across six main GHMC zones: L.B. Nagar, Charminar, Khairatabad, Serilingampally, Kukatpally, and Secunderabad. The ponds are designed to fit idols of different sizes, each with a water depth of about 11 feet. This setup helps in preventing water overflow and reduces the use of natural lakes.
In these zones, 28 spots have been chosen for the ponds, making them easy to reach for local people and reducing the burden on usual immersion sites. The plan also spreads out the crowd, avoiding large gatherings in one place. Portable ponds can be moved and set up in small areas, allowing neighborhoods to handle immersions locally. Excavated ponds are created by digging in open spaces and lining them for protection, while baby ponds are made for smaller idols from homes and colonies.
The different types of ponds give communities the chance to pick what fits their needs based on idol size and location. GHMC officials ensure these ponds will be available throughout the immersion days, keeping an eye on water levels and cleanliness. Each pond can hold enough water for several immersions, and there are plans to refill them to maintain the 11-foot depth.