Delhi to set up 110 collection centres for old and damaged idols

Delhi residents will soon be able to take old or damaged idols and puja material to 110 designated collection centres across the capital rather than leave them in parks, near drains or along roadsides.

The Delhi government has also identified 81 artificial ponds for Ganesh idol immersion. Sites include Gopal Malik Park near Shastri Nagar Metro station, Ajmal Khan Park in Karol Bagh, Astha Kunj on Lotus Temple Road, Sector 1 Ram Lila Ground in Dwarka and Sewa Singh Park opposite Govindpuri police station.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta asked devotees to use the designated artificial ponds instead of the Yamuna or other water bodies, and urged them not to put flowers, garlands or other offerings into rivers and lakes. The government has also encouraged the use of eco-friendly idols over those made with plaster of Paris, harmful colours or polluting decorative material.

Officials said the immersion sites will have security, lighting, sanitation, medical assistance, emergency response and traffic management. Idol remains and other material are to be removed after immersion, followed by site cleaning.

Residents can get the full list of collection and immersion sites from their district revenue office.