Several Ganesha idols made of Plaster of Paris (PoP) washed ashore after the one-and-a-half-day celebrations concluded yesterday. These environmentally hazardous scenes at various beach stretches and immersion points indicate that PoP idols were sold despite government directives banning their use.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had announced strict measures to prevent the manufacturing and sale of POP Ganesh idols, during the monsoon session of the legislative assembly on August 5. The police and other local authorities were also tasked with ensuring these are banned in the State with the borders closely monitored.
Besides the PoP Ganesh idols, the immersion sites also saw other wastes washed ashore even as these are being cleaned up by local bodies and beach cleaning personnel.
