The Pollution Control Board in the district has sent samples of water in the Cauvery and Bhavani rivers following immersion of Lord Ganesha idols earlier this week in connection with the Chathurthi celebrations, to the National Green Tribunal.
The over 200 idols that were immersed into the two rivers were monitored and no violation of pollution norm was noticeable, official sources said.
“Samples have been tested and the results have been submitted to the National Green Tribunal,” a senior official said.
Ahead of the Ganesh Chathurthi celebrations, the NGT had directed all States to regulate the immersion process. The States were motivated to use biodegradable substances.
The district administration had designated spots for immersing the idols in the Cauvery and Bhavani rivers. Though, monitoring of the immersion of all statues was not practical for the Pollution Control Board, processionists were requested thoroughly to desist from immersing flowers and other decorative materials along with the idols.
While the insistence of the authorities was that the idols had to be completely made of clay, sago pith materials, and natural dyes, the makers have been arguing that it was not practical due to the heaviness, and that Plaster of Paris has to be reinforced in a certain proportion for sturdiness and a smooth appearance. According to an idol maker, making an idol completely out of clay would not only make it unaffordable to common man, but also cause difficulty in transportation. However, studies have established that Plaster of Paris is not soluble and settles down on the bed, making water alkaline and unsuitable for aquatic life.
COMMents
SHARE