Nagpur: In good news for artisans engaged in idol-making ahead of Ganeshotsav, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has done away with the cap imposed on height of idols of Lord Ganesh, this year.
Last year, the civic body had set height limits of 2 feet and 4 feet respectively for the idols of Lord Ganesh to be installed at home and public places. However, the civic body, serious on maintaining ecological balance and safety of water bodies, has maintained a ban on manufacture and sale of idols made of Plaster of Paris (PoP) during the festival season.
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Similarly, NMC has banned immersion of idols above 4 feet in water bodies within the city limits. The civic body has asked public organisations to take proper permission and coordinate with city police for taking out processions, during installation as well during the immersion of idols. However, the ban on use of non-biodegradable chemical colours continues. NMC has appealed to citizens to avoid buying PoP idols.
Also, NMC has appealed to artisans to register themselves and obtain a licence for trade from its zonal offices. Dr Gajendra Mahalle, Deputy Commissioner, Solid Waste Management, NMC, has appealed to citizens to opt for eco-friendly Ganeshotsav. The 10-day festival will be celebrated from September 19. As to permission for artisans, Dr Mahalle referred to directions by Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court and directions of the Central Pollution Control Board. Based on this, the civic body has come up with a policy measure for eco-friendly celebrations.
“Citizens should go for idols made of clay to support the environment-friendly festivity. Though the height restrictions for Lord Ganesh idols are gone, devotees are appealed to opt for smaller idols of the deity and help curb pollution,” said Dr Mahalle.
Use of plastic, thermocol for decoration of idols, manufacturing, storage, its use, sale of illegal idols without license and violating guidelines will invite a fine of Rs10,000 along with punishment, the civic body warned.
