A centuries-old Ganpati immersion tradition in Savordem constituency has taken an unexpected turn this year, with residents choosing not to immerse their idols in the nearby stream for the first time.
Instead, devotees have opted for immersion in barrels, citing concerns over pollution allegedly affecting the traditional immersion site.
Residents claim that contaminated wastewater from a pig-rearing farm is being openly discharged into the stream where villagers traditionally immerse their Ganpati idols.
For the devotees, the issue is not just about water pollution but also about protecting the sanctity of a place deeply connected to their religious traditions.
According to residents, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has reportedly detected significant pollution at the site. However, villagers allege that effective action against those responsible has yet to be taken.
With the traditional immersion ritual disrupted, residents are demanding strict measures to prevent further pollution and restore the stream to a clean and suitable condition for Ganpati devotees.
The villagers hope that authorities will address their concerns and help preserve the religious and environmental significance of the immersion site for future generations.
