The government has imposed a strict ban on manufacture or import of Ganesh idols made of Plaster of Paris from the year 2016.
But still, these idols are imported and sold openly in towns and cities.
Plaster of Paris idols are made from hemi-hydrated calcium sulphate.
When immersed in water, they do not dissolve or disintegrate fast, thereby causing irreversible damage to the riverine /coastal ecology or ecosystem of any water body.
This, in turn, has an adverse impact on marine /aquatic life which is also consumed by humans.
The District Magistrates have warned that sale, manufacturing, transportation, and use of Plaster of Paris idols, including their entry into the state, are prohibited.
But Goa border police seem uninterested in enforcing this ban.
Will district magistrates really take action against the use of such idols or will the ban just remain on paper?
