In a landmark directive aimed at protecting the environment, the Bombay High Court has issued strict orders making it mandatory to immerse Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesha idols exclusively in artificial ponds rather than natural water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and the sea. This ruling brings significant changes to how the Ganeshotsav festival is celebrated, placing greater responsibility on local administrations, sculptors, and festival committees.
The High Court took this firm stance while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) addressing severe environmental degradation. The bench emphasized that immersing PoP idols in natural water causes irreversible harm to aquatic ecosystems. To combat this pollution, the court mandated that all PoP idols up to six feet in height must be immersed only in designated artificial sites.
During the hearing, the court directed sharp criticism toward idol makers, asking, “Why is the production and use of PoP continuing when it is widely known to cause massive environmental destruction?” Furthermore, the state government was ordered to strictly enforce Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines.
Noting that restricting immersion alone is insufficient, the court directed the formation of a specialized “Expert Committee” to draft a comprehensive action plan for collecting, recycling, and disposing of PoP debris. Finally, the judiciary stressed that legal measures must be paired with public awareness, encouraging citizens to transition toward eco-friendly alternatives like traditional natural clay (Shadu) idols.
