Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, Oct 1: In an effort to reduce pollution during Dussehra Puja festivities, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to allow idol immersion in select sites and water bodies, said BMC commissioner Krishan Kumar Wednesday.
“Three temporary ponds will be constructed soon for devotees on the banks of Daya and Kuakhai rivers to facilitate immersion of the idols,” Krishan Kumar told media following corporators’ meeting held in BMC.
The civic body has also decided to adopt guidelines of the State Pollution Control Board to avoid use of toxic chemicals, artificial colours and use of loud speakers, said Krishan Kumar.
“Efforts are undertaken to ensure Puja festivities, are held in an eco-friendly manner” he said.
All the 67 wards of BMC would be given `3 lakh each to lay road and take up sanitation works ahead of the festivals.
The civic body is making all out efforts to help the city secure a berth in the top-20 Smart Cities list to be announced by the Centre, added the commissioner.
‘All corporators were advised to campaign on the Citizen-Connect initiate in their respective wards,’’ said Mayor Ananta Narayan Jena.
BMC officials said, plans are afoot to get adequate feedback from the public on key areas which require immediate attention in order to help the city compete for Smart City tag.
Officials added, about 2 lakh feedback forms would be distributed in the city by next week in this regard.