Mumbai: Amid restrictions on usage and immersion of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols, ahead of the Ganpati festival, the BMC has distributed a record 900 metric tonnes of shadu clay to 486 artisans in Mumbai.
To encourage the artisans to use eco-friendly materials to make idols, the BMC distributes clay free of cost. By the time the festival arrives, a total of 1000 metric tonnes of clay is expected to be distributed. Last year, only 613 metric tonnes of clay was distributed.
“The shadu clay is distributed on first-come-first basis at the ward level to artisans who apply online. This year, the applications are much higher than last year, which is a positive sign towards celebrating the festival in an environmentally friendly manner,” said a civic official.
Across 24 wards in Mumbai, a maximum of 96 metric tonnes of clay for Ganpati idols so far has been distributed in K-East ward (Andheri, Jogeshwari, Vile Parle East), followed by 91 metric tonnes in G-North ward (Dadar, Mahim), 77 metric tonnes in P-North ward (Malad), and 73 metric tonnes each in D (Grant Road, Malabar Hill) and N ward (Ghatkopar). (Pointers)
The Bombay High Court in January had put a complete ban on the usage of PoP idols following the Central Pollution Control Board guidelines; however, last month the court reversed its order and allowed the manufacture of PoP idols and banned immersion in natural water bodies. The immersion can be done only in artificial ponds set up by civic bodies.
Environment activist who had filed the petition to ban the manufacture and immersion of PoP idols said, "The court reversed it's order of a blanket ban on PoP idols, thus many sarvajanik mandals will continue using PoP. However, it is positive that there is rise in clay idols. It's a partial success as atleast these the PoP idols will not be immersed in sea, river and lakes thereby polluting the nature water bodies"
However, BMC’s plan to distribute natural colours to paint the Ganpati idols does not seem to be materialising as maximum artisans have already made the idols.
“The idea to distribute natural colours was to encourage artisans to make clay idols wholeheartedly. However, the tender has not been allotted yet,” said an official from BMC environment department. (can be used as Box)
The FPJ had reported on June 8, quoting Naresh Dahibavkar, president of the Brihanmumbai Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samanvay Samiti that with over 40% of artisans in Mumbai have already switched to Shadu clay or other eco-friendly materials.
He added that the BMC is collecting data from Ganeshotsav mandals at the ward level regarding idol heights, based on which it may set height restrictions accordingly.
