PoP Ganesha idols pushed to city outskirts

Clean campaign

While the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board and the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike are imposing a strict ban on plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesha idols in the city, their sale continues to thrive on the city outskirts.

Following the raids and check by these agencies on the manufacturers and sellers of the PoP idols, the Ganesha idols are now shifted to the city outskirts as the checks are limited here.

The brightly painted huge idols can be seen all along Hosur Road, Magadi Road, Mysuru Road and Kanakapura Road.

The idols cost between Rs 5,000 and Rs 12,000 depending on the size and design.

Packaging and idols style shows that the idols are old, but some people buy them as they are available at cheaper rates and large in size, suitable for community idols.

However, the sellers point out that the sales are less compared to the last year. While children chose idols that are cheap, environment conscious people demand eco-friendly idols only.

“I have nothing to do with the PoP ban. I got these idols from the city manufacturers like every year. I have been selling the idols for years and nothing has happened so far. Even though the rates are the same as the last year, the sales are low,” said Jayamma, an idol seller on Magadi Road. “Some people inquired about clay idols. To meet their demand, I have got some of those idols also,” Jayamma added.

“The PoP idols are easily available. I have got them from the border areas. They are easy to carry and manageable. All I have to do is pack them in plastic covers and rest is taken care. The clay idols are heavy and difficult to manage,” said Bomma. Reacting to this, KSPCB Chairman Lakshman said he would check the matter and take action.