Bengaluru: Over 60 idol makers from Kumbar community met Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) Chairman Lakshman and urged him to relax this year the new rule on Ganesha idols made of Plaster of Paris (PoP). They met Lakshman in the wake of notification issued by the state government banning immersion of PoP and coloured idols in any of water sources in the state.
The background of notification was due to the decision given by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), New Delhi, in its order dated on May 9, 2013. KSPCB had taken into consideration the studies regarding the impact of immersion of POP, colour idols in water bodies in the city.
Sridhar, a member of the idol makers association, told Deccan Chronicle that after appraising the situation about the stock and the kind of investment that has gone into the idol making, the chairman responded positively to their requests. However, he has convened yet another meeting on Monday with all community members.
The members of the association have submitted an appeal to the KSPCB stating that they have already prepared PoP idols and requested to allow them to sell in this year. They also assured that PoP idols will not be sculpted in the coming year.
The association also requested KSPCB not to to allow PoP idols from outside the state. It was made clear to the association, that PoP idols from other states have been banned and whoever sells or purchases them will be prosecuted as per the law.
A team of officials from BBMP, KSPCB and representative of the association will jointly inspect and assess the number of PoP idols already prepared. Based on the assessment and report further decision will be taken to scientifically dispose these PoP instead of immersing them in water bodies.
