NGT asks MP, CG and Rajasthan to seize and destruct PoP idols

BHOPAL: National Green Tribunal (NGT) has again asked three states of MP, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan to comply with Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) guidelines on idol immersion within 15 days. NGT ordered for immediate seizure and destruction of all idols made of plaster of paris (PoP) and other non-biodegradable idols.

NGT central zone bench had ordered home secretary to be present on Tuesday to explain non-compliance of its order. Bench comprising judicial member Justice Dalip Singh and expert member Bikram Singh Sajwan expressed dissatisfaction with state government for not following CPCB guidelines.

Bench asked state government to instruct all district collectors to seize and destroy PoP idols with immediate effect. All idol makers would be asked to adhere to CPCB guidelines that specificied idol height failing which action would be taken against them.

No chemical or synthetic colours should be used on idols that are harmful for aquatic flora and fauna, tribunal observed, adding, mass awareness programmes should be conducted by state government for people's participation. Compliance has to be reported by three states on September 11.

When orders were passed by NGT in 2013, makeshift idol immersion spots were created by Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) in all 70 wards ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi and Durga Puja. Besides, main immersion spots were designated as Prempura Ghat, Bairagarh Ghat, Khatlapura, Dhobighat, Hataikheda Dam and Shahpura Lake.

CPCB guidelines for idol immersion:

Idols should be made from natural materials like traditional clay rather than baked clay, plaster of paris

Use of toxic and non-biodegradable chemical dyes for painting idols should be strictly prohibited

Worship material like flowers, vastras (clothes), decorating material (made of paper and plastic) should be removed before immersion of idol

Biodegradable materials should be collected separately for recycling or composting. Non-biodegradable materials should be collected separately for disposal in sanitary landfills

'Idol Immersion Points' shall be cordoned off and barricaded. Synthetic liner may be placed in the bottom, well in advance. The said liner shall be removed on completion of immersion ceremony so that remains of idols would be brought to the bank

Bamboo and wooden logs, if any would be reused. Clay may be taken to sanitary land fill for disposal.

In case of immersion of idols in rivers and lakes, arrangement may be made for construction of temporary confined ponds with earthen bunds

Lime may be added in temporary confined ponds