‘Avoid pollution during idol immersion'

The Puducherry Pollution Control Committee has asked the public to follow a set of guidelines for immersion of idols in waterbodies during Vinayaka Chathurthi coming towards the end of August to prevent water pollution.

The guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board Delhi states that traditional clay than baked clay should be used for idol making. Other guidelines include the use of water-soluble and non-toxic natural dyes for painting the idols.

A press release from the Department of Science, Technology and Environment said that immersion in sea may be done between low tide line and high tide line.

The release has requested the public to avoid littering and burning solid waste at the immersion site.

The department has also stated that an NOC must be obtained from the Puducherry Pollution Control Committee before immersion.

Obtaining the NOC is applicable to individuals and puja samitis, said M. Dwarakanath, director. Full guidelines are available on www.dste.puducherry.gov.in.

Inspection of idol manufacturing units

The DSTE led by G. Rukmani, scientist, carried out an inspection of various idol manufacturing units to explain the guidelines issued by the CPCB and check if the units were using plaster of paris.

The inspectors found that manufacturers in the city were using tapioca starch powder, paper pulp, terracotta and clay. Ms. Rukmani and P. Vipin Babu, junior scientific assistant, explained the adverse effect of plaster of paris on waterbodies.