Surat: The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) successfully concluded the Shri Ganesh Visarjan ceremony for 2025, overseeing the eco-friendly immersion of nearly 80,000 idols in specially prepared artificial ponds across the city. The entire operation, which began on the morning of September 6th and concluded on September 7th, was conducted in accordance with guidelines from the National Green Tribunal and the Central Pollution Control Board to protect the environment.

Immersion by the Numbers

According to data released by the SMC, a total of 79,835 idols were immersed between August 28 and September 7, 2025. This includes:

• 71,222 idols immersed between 6:00 AM on September 6th and 10:00 AM on September 7th.
• An additional 8,513 Shri Gauri Ganesh idols were immersed in the preceding period from August 28th to September 5th.

The immersions took place across 21 artificial ponds strategically located in various zones of the city, including Athwa, Central, Varachha, Limbayat, Udhna, Rander, and Katargam. A complete ban was enforced on immersing idols in the Tapi river and other natural water bodies. Following the collection, all immersed idols are scheduled to be transported to the AM/NS jetty at Hazira for their final immersion.

Security and Sustainability Measures

To ensure a smooth and safe process, the SMC deployed a multi-departmental effort involving all nine of its zones, the Public Infrastructure Cell, the Fire Brigade, and the Security Department. The entire event was monitored through a network of 88 CCTV cameras, with live feeds being watched from the Police Commissioner’s office and the SMC’s ICCC control room. The Surat City Police also provided a strong security presence at all immersion sites and along procession routes to maintain law and order.

In a unique initiative to promote sustainability, women from self-help groups organized under the DAY-NULM and D-JAY(S) urban livelihood missions were present at the immersion sites. They respectfully collected ornaments, garments, and other adornments from the idols before immersion. These materials will be repurposed and reused to create useful items, a project aimed at both environmental conservation and providing employment opportunities for women in need.

Following the festivities, the SMC undertook a massive overnight cleaning drive to clear all city roads used for the processions, ensuring the city was clean by the next morning.

Shri Ganesh Idol Immersions at Artificial Ponds (2025)

Summary of Total Immersions (2025)