Mumbai: 2022 to see idols free of plaster of Paris

Devotees carry an idol for immersion, at Bandra. File pic

The BMC is finally gearing up for a Ganeshotsav and other festivals that are free of plaster of paris (PoP) idols. A ban on the use of PoP idols has been there for years, but it wasn't implemented owing to several concerns raised by the sculptors.

The civic body has held a meeting with various stakeholders to finally execute the plan.

After the rules are implemented, the deposit would be confiscated and the registration cancelled for two years if the idol is not eco-friendly.

Representatives of sculptors, coordinating committees of Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, Mumbai police and ‘NEERI' were present at the meeting held under the supervision of BMC's Additional Commissioner Ashwinin Bhide and Deputy Commissioner Harshad Kale.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) had issued eco-friendly guidelines for festivals, which include instructions for idol makers, puja organising committees and urban local bodies. The guidelines also include pollution-free immersion.

The members of the sculptors' association said that it takes more time and space to make eco-friendly clay sculptures.

They asked the civic corporation to provide more space and more time for idol workshops.

"The BMC is trying to accommodate as many instructions as possible to implement eco-friendly festivals from next year," said a civic official, adding that they expect response from sculptors as well as Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav committees.

Keeping idols eco-friendly

. Idols should be made only from natural, biodegradable and eco-friendly materials, as per CPCB guidelines

. Leaves, flowers and clothes should be used for decoration. Single-use plastic is strictly prohibited

. Colours for painting idols and for decoration must be eco-friendly

. Sculptors must be registered with local self-governing bodies

. There should be separate instructions for immersion of idols in rivers, lakes, seas, etc.

. Local coastal management authority's permission needed for immersion in the sea

. Residents should prefer home immersion of idols