Hindustan Times ST (Mumbai) - HT Navi Mumbai Live
Artificial pond at Panvel will save historic Wadale pond
In order to curb pollution at Wadale pond that is a major landmark in Panvel, for the first time, an artificial pond has been readied in it for immersing Ganesh idols.
Thousands of idols are expected to be immersed in the pond after the 1 ½ day Ganpati to the 10th day immersion. The initiative has been taken up by Rotary Club of Panvel Central.
Wadale pond has been a part of history of Panvel since the time of the Peshwas. It was dug up by Chimaji Appa. It has in recent times faced pollution issues and also dried up, which worried environmentalists.
In order to preserve the pond and also curb pollution, the Rotary Club members have got an artificial pond dug up near Ashok garden.
They have appealed to the residents to immerse the idols in the artificial pond and save Wadale pond. They have got a positive response from the residents.
As the pond had dried up, the Club took permission from the Panvel Municipal Council (PMC) and constructed a large artificial Wadale pond has been a part of history of Panvel since the time of the Peshwas.
pond on one side of Wadale pond, opposite Ballaleshwar temple. It spent Rs13 lakh for the project. Former PMC president JM Mhatre supplied free machinery for the project.
Owing to good rainfall this year, Wadale pond has filled up and has overflowed. With the artificial pond too filling up, immersion will be possible there.
Hrishikesh Buva, a member of the club, “The pond has the capacity to immerse thousands of idols. This will prevent water pollution at Wadale pond.”
He added, “We will soon create further awareness on immersion in the artificial pond. In fact, we are confident that more idols will be immersed here this year.”
PMC president Charusheela Gharat said, “The pond constructed next to Wadale pond should not really be called an artificial pond.”
She stated, “I appeal to the residents to use the new pond for immersion and cooperate with the PMC to help conserve the environment and also sustain the beauty of the city.”