Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated early measures to ensure an eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi celebration this year. The civic body held a meeting with city sculptors to inform them of the guidelines for making idols without Plaster of Paris (POP), a material banned due to its detrimental effects on the environment.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) had issued similar guidelines in 2020, but their late announcement in previous years left little time for implementation. This year, PMC organized the meeting at the start of the year to allow sculptors adequate time to adopt eco-friendly practices.

Shift Towards Sustainable Idol-Making

Since idol-making has not yet started, sculptors were advised to use alternative materials like clay, paper, and biodegradable substances. About 25 to 30 sculptors attended the meeting, sharing their challenges. PMC has assured them of support to resolve these issues, said Sanjay Shinde, Deputy Commissioner of the Environment Department.

Comprehensive Guidelines Released

PMC’s detailed guidelines aim to minimize the environmental impact of idol-making and celebrations:

• Sculpt idols using biodegradable materials such as clay and avoid POP, plastic, and thermocol.

• Use natural products like dried flowers, straw, and plant-based materials for decoration.

• Paint idols with non-toxic, water-based, biodegradable, and natural colors instead of synthetic or oil-based paints.

• Incorporate washable and natural decorative clothing and plant-based dyes for added aesthetics.

Appeal to Citizens

The PMC urged citizens to buy idols from sculptors who follow these eco-friendly practices. "Your support is crucial to ensuring an environmentally sustainable celebration," the civic body stated, appealing for active cooperation from all stakeholders.