Advertisement

Thane Municipal Corporation Bans POP Idols, Promotes Eco-Friendly Celebrations

POP idols are now prohibited, and only biodegradable materials such as clay, wood, and natural fibers will be permitted

Thane Municipal Corporation Bans POP Idols, Promotes Eco-Friendly Celebrations
SHARES

To encourage a greener environment, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has banned the sale of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols in Thane. Those violating the regulation will face action under the Environment (Protection) Act. This ban will also be enforced during the Navratri festival.

Idol makers and sellers must submit an undertaking to the TMC, confirming that they will manufacture or store idols made from Shadu soil or other eco-friendly materials. The municipality has urged devotees to purchase idols only from authorized vendors approved by TMC.

The High Court, along with the Union Department of Environment, Forests and Climate Change and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, has issued guidelines for eco-friendly festivities. In line with these directives, Thane Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao has introduced regulations for Ganeshotsav. POP idols are now prohibited, and only biodegradable materials such as clay, wood, and natural fibers will be permitted. Idol makers using eco-friendly materials must display a 3x5-foot board stating, "Eco-friendly idols available here."

All idols must be immersed in artificial lakes, designated tanks in residential complexes, or at collection centers set up by the municipality. Idol makers and vendors must obtain approval from the ward office, which must be displayed at their stalls. Only certified idol artists will be allowed to apply for space for crafting eco-friendly idols. Applications for free Shadu soil must be submitted by February 14, 2025, with no exceptions for late requests.


Also Read: Mira Bhayandar Set to Emerge as a Climate-Resilient City by 2047


Free Spaces for Eco-Friendly Idol Makers

On a trial basis this year, the TMC will provide free municipal space to sculptors using Shadu soil or other eco-friendly materials. Spaces will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested artisans must apply to their ward office by March 31, 2025. Selected applicants will receive space by April 15, 2025, but they must arrange for their own sheds, electricity, and water supply. The allocated spaces will be available only until October 1, 2025, after which they must be returned to the municipality.


Guidelines for Mandals

Mandals have been instructed to use turmeric, sandalwood, and ocher for coloring idols. Flowers, clothes, and other puja materials should be eco-friendly. Plates and bowls made of glass or metal should be used instead of plastic. Single-use plastic items are strictly prohibited. Additionally, mandals must secure prior permission from the TMC at least one month in advance by submitting an idol immersion plan.

These measures aim to ensure an environmentally responsible celebration while preserving traditional rituals.

RELATED TOPICS
MumbaiLive would like to send you latest news updates