Mangaluru: The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has directed citizens, traders, idol makers and Ganeshotsava committees to celebrate the Gowri-Ganesha festival in an environmentally friendly manner, while strictly enforcing the ban on idols made from Plaster of Paris (PoP), heavy metals and toxic chemical substances.
The MCC has stated that the production, storage and immersion of Gowri-Ganesha idols made using PoP or other prohibited materials are not permitted. The immersion of such idols in any water source has also been banned.
PoP idols prohibited
The civic body has prohibited the manufacture of Ganesha idols using Plaster of Paris and other chemical materials. The storage, sale, distribution and public display of PoP idols will also not be permitted.
Idol makers have further been directed not to use chemical-based colours containing toxic substances or heavy metals while painting Gowri and Ganesha idols.
The restrictions are aimed at preventing harmful substances from entering water bodies and reducing pollution during the festival.
The MCC has urged manufacturers and sellers to strictly follow the guidelines while preparing idols for the upcoming celebrations.
Natural clay idols encouraged
The public and Ganeshotsava committees have been advised to use idols made exclusively from natural clay and other environmentally friendly materials.
The civic body has also encouraged the use of natural and non-toxic colours for decorating the idols.
The guidelines are intended to promote celebrations that minimise environmental damage while allowing devotees and festival committees to observe the traditional rituals.
Citizens have been urged to ensure that the idols they purchase comply with the prescribed environmental norms and do not contain PoP, toxic chemicals or heavy metals.
Immersion in water bodies banned
The MCC has also instructed the public and Ganeshotsava committees not to immerse Ganesha idols in lakes, rivers, canals, reservoirs or other natural water bodies.
The direction is intended to prevent pollution caused by idol materials, paints and other substances entering water sources during immersion.
Festival organisers have therefore been asked to follow the prescribed arrangements for idol immersion and ensure that the celebrations do not adversely affect public water resources.
Action against violators
The MCC has warned that strict action will be taken if idols violating the guidelines are found being manufactured, sold or used.
Such idols may be seized, and those responsible could face action under applicable environmental laws, including the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Traders, manufacturers and Ganeshotsava committees failing to comply with the directions may also face legal action and penalties under applicable regulations, including the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026.
The civic body has called upon all stakeholders involved in the festival to ensure compliance with the restrictions and cooperate with enforcement officials.
MCC urges responsible celebrations
The MCC Commissioner has urged citizens to give priority to cleanliness and public health while celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi.
The civic body has appealed to residents, idol makers, traders and festival committees to adopt eco-friendly practices and ensure that the festivities do not result in pollution or damage to water bodies.
With Gowri-Ganesha celebrations involving large-scale idol manufacture, sale and immersion, the MCC has stressed the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring environmentally responsible festivities.
Citizens have been encouraged to choose natural clay idols and non-toxic colours and to follow the prescribed immersion guidelines.
The MCC said cooperation from the public and festival organisers will be essential to ensure that the festival is celebrated with devotion while protecting the city’s environment, cleanliness and public health.