MAPUSA
With less than a week to go for Ganesh Chaturthi, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has intensified its drive against the making and sale of Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols, which are banned due to their harmful impact on the environment.
Inspection teams of the GSPCB fanned out across the State in recent days, visiting workshops, chitrashalas (idol-making units) and even households where idols are being crafted.
The surprise checks revealed violations in several talukas. PoP idols were detected in Tiswadi (2 cases), Quepem (2), Salcete (3), Pernem (4), Mormugao (4), Sattari (1) and Ponda (1).
Officials have warned that units continuing to manufacture or stock PoP idols will face strict action. “The law is clear – Plaster of Paris idols are banned because they do not dissolve easily in water and release toxic substances, damaging aquatic life. Any workshop found violating this rule will be sealed,” a senior GSPCB official said.
The crackdown comes in the wake of repeated appeals by the Board and environmental groups urging artisans and devotees to adopt eco-friendly clay idols, which fully dissolve during immersion.
Activists have also pointed out that despite the ban, PoP idols continue to find their way into local markets.
Locals welcomed the GSPCB’s action. “Every year, we see the water bodies choked with half-dissolved idols after Chaturthi. If authorities are serious this time, it will make a big difference,” said a resident of Mapusa.
The GSPCB has also urged the public to report any instance of PoP idol sales to their helpline and announced that enforcement teams will continue surprise inspections till the festival.
Ganesh Chaturthi, Goa’s most celebrated festival, will see thousands of idols installed in homes and public pandals across the State.
