Ganeshotsav is just a few days away. In this context, the state government had refused the immersion of POP idols and idols larger than 6 feet in lakes and the sea. However, now, with the aim of celebrating environmentally friendly festivals, the state government has issued some special guidelines regarding the immersion of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols on Friday. According to these guidelines, it is mandatory to immerse POP idols less than 6 feet tall in artificial ponds. These guidelines will be applicable to all festivals celebrated until March 2026.
Guidelines for POP idol immersion:
It is mandatory to maintain a register when selling POP idols
The idol seller must provide an immersion information booklet to the customer
It is mandatory to have a red circular mark painted with oil paint on the back of the POP idol
Encourage Ganesh mandals to install smaller idols
If there is no alternative available for public idols taller than 6 feet, permission may be granted for immersion in natural water bodies.
Local self-governing bodies should create artificial ponds of appropriate size and sufficient number for idol immersion.
The water in the pond should be 8-10 times the expected capacity of the idol.