**Maharashtra Mandates Immersion of Smaller PoP Idols in Artificial Tanks**
The Maharashtra government has announced a new regulation requiring that all Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols under 5 feet in height be immersed in artificial water tanks rather than in natural water bodies such as seas, rivers, or ponds. This decision was communicated to the Bombay High Court on Wednesday by Maharashtra Advocate General Birendra Saraf, who indicated that approximately 195,000 idols would be immersed in these designated tanks. In contrast, around 7,000 idols exceeding the 5-foot limit will still be immersed in natural water bodies.
During the court proceedings, Saraf explained that even when PoP idols are immersed in natural water, they do not dissolve immediately, prompting local government bodies to clean the water bodies the following day. However, Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne expressed concern over the significant number of idols being immersed in natural water, referencing guidelines from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) that discourage the immersion of PoP idols altogether. The bench suggested that the government consider raising the height limit for PoP idols from 5 feet to 7 or 8 feet, which would necessitate their immersion in artificial tanks.
The judges emphasized the importance of reducing environmental impact, stating, “We are only trying to lessen the environmental impact…we need to head to a day when there will be no immersion in the sea.” Saraf noted that there are 3,865 idols between 5 and 10 feet tall and 3,998 that exceed 10 feet. He argued that while CPCB guidelines are advisory, the state has seen a shift towards environmentally friendly idol materials following various awareness campaigns.
Despite this, Saraf mentioned that constructing larger tanks for idols over 5 feet poses feasibility challenges, particularly in densely populated areas like Mumbai, where space is limited. Advocate Milind Sathe, representing the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for substantial water resources for larger tanks.
The bench has directed the Advocate General to explore the possibility of accommodating PoP idols between 7 and 8 feet in height within the artificial tanks. Earlier this year, the court had initially imposed a complete ban on the manufacturing and sale of Ganpati idols made from PoP, but later modified this order in June, allowing for the production of PoP idols while instructing the state to develop a policy for their immersion.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why has the Maharashtra government mandated the immersion of smaller PoP idols in artificial tanks?**
A: The government aims to reduce environmental impact and adhere to CPCB guidelines that discourage the immersion of PoP idols in natural water bodies.
