BBMP BANS POP GANESHA IDOLS, PLANS OVER 40 IMMERSION SITES IN BENGALURU
Ban on Plaster of Paris Ganesha Idols
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has imposed a strict ban on Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesha idols in Bengaluru for the 2025 Ganesh Chaturthi festival. This move aligns with longstanding environmental concerns over PoP idols, which contribute to water and soil pollution when immersed in lakes and rivers due to their non-biodegradable and toxic nature.
Despite the ban, illegal manufacture and sale of PoP idols have persisted in Bengaluru. BBMP, together with Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), is intensifying enforcement by raiding manufacturing units and penalizing sellers to curb the use of these environmentally harmful idols.
Environmental and Health Considerations
PoP idols release harmful substances such as lead and other chemicals, adversely affecting aquatic life and deteriorating water quality. The ban aims to reduce these hazards and promote the use of eco-friendly alternatives like clay and natural materials, which dissolve harmlessly in water.
Designated Immersion Sites and Festive Management
To manage and facilitate smoother immersion of Ganesh idols, BBMP has planned over 40 designated immersion sites across Bengaluru. These include major lakes and water bodies equipped with eco-friendly infrastructure to support the mass immersion in an organized manner.
Temporary mobile immersion units, such as mobile tanks, will be deployed ward-wise to accommodate residents who cannot visit the lakes directly. The move intends to reduce water pollution and avoid chaotic crowds during immersion.
Additional Measures by BBMP
Setting up 75 zonal single-window centers for devotees to obtain permissions related to Ganesha celebrations easily.
Guidelines urging organizers to avoid idol installations in the middle of roads and ensuring they follow environmental norms.
Active monitoring during the festival period to enforce the ban and promote eco-friendly practices.
Encouraging the use of biodegradable decorations and banning single-use plastics in Ganesha pandals.
Community and Official Reactions
Environmentalists and residents have welcomed the ban as a crucial step toward more sustainable and responsible celebrations. Meanwhile, authorities acknowledge enforcement challenges but remain committed to strict action against violators to protect Bengaluru’s environment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Q1: Why has BBMP banned Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesha idols?
PoP idols are banned because they cause water pollution and harm aquatic ecosystems due to their toxic and non-biodegradable nature.
Q2: What alternatives are recommended for Ganesha idols?
Eco-friendly idols made of natural clay, papier-mâché, or other biodegradable materials are recommended.
Q3: How many immersion sites are planned in Bengaluru?
BBMP has planned over 40 immersion sites across the city to facilitate orderly and environmentally safe idol immersion.
Q4: What measures does BBMP take during the Ganesh festival?
BBMP sets up zonal offices for permissions, deploys mobile immersion units, monitors adherence to environmental guidelines, and penalizes illegal PoP idol makers and sellers.
Q5: Are there restrictions on decorations and plastics during the festival?
Yes, single-use plastics are banned, and eco-friendly decorations are encouraged to minimize waste and pollution.
Q6: How does BBMP enforce the ban on PoP idols?
Through raids on manufacturing units, fines and seizures, and close coordination with KSPCB and police.
Published on: August 6, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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