KSPCB bans immersion of PoP idols in water bodies

The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has banned immersion of Ganesha and Gowri idols made of plaster of paris (PoP) and those painted using hazardous chemicals. Gowri-Ganesha festival will be celebrated in the month of September, this year.

The ban has been effected under Water Pollution (Prevention and Control) Act, 1974, Section 33(A). Accordingly, it is a violation of laws, if such idols are immersed in lakes, rivers, canals and wells. The violation will invite a fine of Rs 10,000 and imprisonment.

Despite awareness being created against installing idols made of PoP and baked clay idols painted with chemical colours, the practise is yet to be curbed. The PoP idols affect aquatic life. The rise in pollution level in water sources has an impact on the lives of livestock and birds.

So, the KSPCB has decided to impose the norms strictly and has sent circulars to all Corporations, City Municipal Councils, Taluk Municipal Councils, Town Panchayats and other local bodies to comply with the rules and the norms. The authorities can seek the help of the police department to prevent immersion of such idols, it has been stressed.

The KSPCB has also urged the Excise, Transport, Police, Forest and other departments to keep a vigil so that such idols, which are usually transported from other states are not allowed into the district. Local artisans should be warned against the use of artificial and chemical colours or ban them from selling the idols.

Only the idols that are devoid of any artificial colour should be allowed for immersion in lakes and rivers. The waste, like dry flowers and puja materials should be disposed of properly before immersion. Suggestions can be sought from the KSPCB’s regional office, the circular states. It has also sought the cooperation of the public in protecting the water sources.