Bengaluru: PoP idols return ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi despite ban

Bengaluru: Nearly two months before Ganesh Chaturthi, banned plaster of Paris (PoP) idols have resurfaced in Bengaluru, defying regulatory actions in recent years.

Around 100 idols, many measuring between three and five feet, were on display at the Venkateshwara Temple premises on Seshadripuram Main Road. A shed near Kamat Hotel on RV Road had fewer idols, but business appeared brisk.

'Ideal for large idols'

At Seshadripuram, a vendor insisted PoP remained ideal for large idols. "Clay is fine for small ones. PoP idols are cheaper, lighter and do not break easily," he said, requesting anonymity.

Manikantha, a pre-university student, was scouting for affordable options. "My father asked me to check for idols within Rs 1,000," he said.

Both sellers and buyers turned wary when asked about the ban.

One vendor defended his stock, claiming: "At least our colours are not toxic. You will get cheaper idols at RV Road, but not good quality ones."

The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) banned PoP idols through a July 2016 notification, citing environmental hazards. In January 2017, the Karnataka High Court upheld the order, stressing the need to protect waterbodies.

PoP does not dissolve easily and releases harmful chemicals. Studies show it affects water’s alkalinity, turbidity, hardness, suspended solids and oxygen demand.

Colours pose bigger threat

Researchers have flagged the widespread use of synthetic colours containing heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury. Enforcement, however, has mostly targeted PoP idols.

PM Narendra Swamy, KSPCB Chairman, said that the board would act if locations were shared.

A senior official admitted manpower constraints hampered enforcement. "The solution lies in involving urban local bodies and coordinating action well in advance," he said.