Ganesh Visarjan: Noise pollution and waste management in Thane and Pune

During the seven-day Ganpati Visarjan festival in Maharashtra, significant environmental and noise pollution issues were reported in Thane and Pune.

In Thane, noise levels reached as high as 105 decibels despite restrictions on DJ and Dolby systems. The high volume was attributed to the use of dhol-tasha, banjos, loudspeakers, and large metal instruments during processions. Recorded levels varied by location, with some areas seeing 85-95 decibels and others exceeding 100 decibels late at night.

In Pune, the immersion process saw the disposal of 156,014 Ganesh idols over seven days. Authorities collected 198,536 kilograms of 'nirmalya' (floral and ritual waste), with a record 136,646 kilograms collected on September 19 alone. To manage the scale, citizens utilized iron tanks, permanent tanks, and collection centers to reduce pressure on local rivers and water bodies.