The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) issued new directives on September 9, officially banning the immersion of religious idols in the Yamuna River and other natural water bodies throughout the capital. This policy shift is part of an ongoing effort to reduce pollution levels in the river, which has historically faced significant environmental strain during festival seasons.

To accommodate the public, local authorities have established 81 artificial ponds across the city. These sites are intended to serve as the exclusive locations for the 'Visarjan' (immersion) rituals associated with the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. The DPCC mandate emphasizes that any immersion conducted outside of these officially sanctioned locations will be considered a violation of the new environmental guidelines.

While the directive is presented as a necessary measure for river conservation, it marks a significant change in traditional practices for many residents. The government has tasked local municipal bodies with ensuring these artificial sites are accessible and equipped to handle the volume of idols expected during the celebrations. Authorities have not yet detailed the specific enforcement mechanisms that will be used to prevent unauthorized immersions in the Yamuna, though the order makes it clear that the river is now strictly off-limits for these activities.