Savordem, Sept. 16 -- Devotees from the Kashti area of the Savordem constituency have, for the first time, opted against immersing their Ganesh idols in a nearby stream through the traditional method, citing concerns over pollution and the respectful treatment of the deity.

Instead, the devotees chose to immerse the idols in barrels as an alternative arrangement during this year's Ganeshotsav.

The decision follows allegations that contaminated wastewater from a piggery farm is being discharged into the same stream traditionally used by devotees for Ganesh idol immersion.

Residents have raised concerns that the alleged discharge has affected the quality of the stream and could lead to the desecration of Ganesh idols during immersion.

A...