In a bid to promote a smoother and more eco-friendly Ganeshotsav in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a significant policy change for public Ganesha Mandals. Mandals that have adhered to government rules for the past decade will be eligible for a five-year permit to construct pandals, though annual renewals will still be required. These mandals must submit a self-declaration of compliance and obtain approvals from local and traffic police each year.

This decision, aligned with the Maharashtra Government's directive, aims to reward mandals that have consistently adhered to regulations.

For mandaps on private land, a no-objection certificate from the property owner or society is mandatory. To simplify the application process, the BMC has launched an online portal where organisers can apply, starting August 6, 2024. The portal accessible at https://portal.mcgm.gov.in, is part of the One Window Scheme aimed at making the process more efficient.

Applications can be submitted by visiting the BMC website and navigating to "For Citizen > Apply > Pandal (Ganpati/Navratri)" link. A nominal fee of ₹100 will be charged for setting up the mandal.

In addition to these measures, the BMC is promoting an eco-friendly Ganeshotsav. They are providing free shadu soil and mandap spaces on a first come, first served basis, to sculptors making idols. Permission granted to these sculptors will extend through Navratri. So far, 217 sculptors have received about 500 tons of free shadu clay.

These initiatives underscores the BMC's commitment to facilitate an eco-friendly celebration of Ganeshotsav, which begins on September 7, 2024.