Keri: Despite govt’s strict ban on the manufacture, import, and sale of plaster of paris (PoP) Ganesh idols, many have been found this year at several locations in Sattari, polluting water bodies. Even in fast-flowing rivers, such idols lay undissolved, choking aquatic life and blocking waterways.Synthetic paints used to decorate the idols often contain hazardous toxins, which pollute aquatic ecosystems and enter the food chain.Ulhas Mahadeshri, an artisan from Ghoteli in Sattari, told TOI that govt had taken declarations from artisans stating they would manufacture and supply only clay Ganesh idols. However, he said many families brought and worshipped PoP idols because they are lightweight and attractive.This year, relaxation in norms by the Goa State Pollution Control Board — allowing up to 20% PoP in clay idols — has enabled the use of idols containing PoP and painted with synthetic colours.Suraj Malik, a lawyer from Sattari, said that the relaxation has boosted the use of PoP Ganesh idols on a large scale. He too said that such idols were found lying undissolved at many places, and that “people had not even spared thirst-quenching springs (for immersion)”.
