Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad S.B. Bommanahalli has warned idol makers that the administration would be left with no option other than seizing the raw material used for making Ganesh idols from plaster of Paris (PoP) if they [idol makers] violated the ban order.
Chairing a meeting organised to create awareness on the ban on idols made of PoP among the Ganesh Mahamandals, idol makers and general public here on Wednesday, Mr. Bommanahalli said that an order had been issued banning immersion of idols made of PoP and toxic chemical colours in water bodies during the Ganesh festival and it was the duty of everyone to adhere to it.
He said that it was important that the public took steps to prevent pollution of water bodies as it was essential to ensure a safe future for the next generation. He said that the PoP ban was being enforced since last year and this year, all steps are being taken for the strict implementation of the order. Mr.
Bommanahalli sought the cooperation of all the stakeholders in the implementation of the order.
Government agencies had reported to the Supreme Court about water pollution being caused due to immersion of idols made of PoP and toxic chemical colours, following which the Supreme Court issued an order banning PoP idols, he said and added that it was the responsibility of everyone to follow the court order and ensure the protection of environment.
Mr. Bommanahalli said that while it was the duty of the general public to use eco- friendly idols, the idol makers should make idols using clay. They should make them available to the public at affordable prices.
Apart from office-bearers of various Ganesh Mahamandals, idol makers, Officer of Karnataka State Pollution Control Board VijayakumarKhadakbhavi, Deputy Commissioner of Police B.S. Nemagoud, Municipal Commissioner Major SiddalingayyaHiremath and others were present.