To crack down on PoP idols with fines and bans
THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
While Ganesh Chaturthi may still be two months away, the Arpora-Nagoa village panchayat has already taken a commendable leap forward by launching a sustained awareness campaign to discourage the use of plaster of Paris (PoP) idols – a move that’s earning praise from environmentalists and villagers alike.
In what could be seen as a model initiative for other villages to emulate, the panchayat convened a meeting this week with temple committee members and panchayat representatives to sensitise them on the harmful effects of PoP idols on the environment.
The gathering wasn’t just talk – it set the stage for decisive action.
Sarpanch Roshan Redkar, who has been at the forefront of the campaign, made a passionate plea urging all residents to opt for eco-friendly clay idols this Ganesh festival.
“PoP idols are toxic to our water bodies and take years to disintegrate. We’ve seen the aftermath every year – idols floating or lodged in our rivers for months. This has to stop,” he said.
To reinforce the message, the panchayat announced strict penalties for violations. Anyone found worshipping or immersing PoP idols will be fined between ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the size of the idol.
Furthermore, individuals who bring PoP idols will be disqualified from participating in any panchayat-organised Ganesh Chaturthi events – a move aimed at hitting both pocket and pride.
Redkar also emphasised that switching to clay idols is not just about avoiding penalties – it's about embracing tradition and supporting local artisans.
“Our ancestors worshipped clay idols and local potters depend on this season. Eco-friendly Ganesh idols are a way of preserving both culture and environment,” he said.
The sarpanch also urged government departments to step up and ban the entry of PoP idols at Goa’s borders – a measure he believes is vital to give local initiatives real impact.
