Pollution Control Board bans use of thermocol, plastic for idol immersion

In the guidelines for craftsman, it said that idols made up of traditional virtuous like clay and mud as well as free from plaster of Paris, plastic and thermocol should be encouraged.

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in its revised guidelines has forbidden the usage of plastic, thermocol and plaster of Paris for making of idols.

CPCB's "revised guidelines for idol immersion" is to encourage eco-friendly and bio-degradable idol immersion and prevent the pollution in recipient water bodies.

"Traditionally, clay is used to make Ganesh idols. Over the years, however, plaster of Paris (POP), which is lighter and cheaper, has become the favoured material to mould idols. POP contains chemicals such as gypsum, sulphur, phosphorus, and magnesium.

"The dyes used to colour these idols may also contain mercury, cadmium, arsenic, lead, and carbon. Plastic and