New Delh, Sept. 16 -- In light of Ganeshotsav and Durga Puja celebrations, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee has prohibited the immersion of idols in the Yamuna and other water bodies in the national capital, except at designated sites identified by local authorities. The DPCC directions issued on September 9 under Section 33A of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, have asked idol makers and sellers to use natural clay, biodegradable materials and natural dyes.
Plaster of Paris-based idols should not be allowed for immersion in water bodies, the DPCC said, emphasising that the order comes in light of Ganeshotsav and Durga Puja celebrations, where it has been a tradition to immerse idols in water bodies like rivers, lakes, ponds and wells.
The directions were issued in accordance with the revised guidelines of the Central Pollution Control Board issued in May 2020.
The DPCC said idol immersion contributes to silting and deterioration of water quality, including changes in conductivity, biochemical oxygen demand and heavy-metal concentrations. Chemical paints and dyes used on idols may contain hazardous elements such as mercury, chromium, lead and cadmium, posing risks to aquatic life and public health, it said.
The DPCC cited orders of the National Green Tribunal dated January 13 and September 16, 2015, prohibiting waste, puja material, food grains, oil and other materials into the Yamuna except at designated locations.
District magistrates have been directed to enforce the restrictions. Violators may be liable to pay an environmental compensation of Rs 50,000, which will be deposited with the DPCC, according to the order.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.