Though at least 70,000 people managed to bring clay idols of Lord Ganesha for pujas at their homes and societies this year, over 25,000 Mumbaikars couldn’t do this despite internal urge and repeated efforts. Reason: there were not enough clay idols in the city.
“There was a huge demand for eco-Ganeshas in the city this year, thanks to persistent awareness campaigns. Unfortunately, it could not be met due to shortage of 25,000 clay idols,” says a top Maharashtra Pollution Control board (MPCB) official. The MPCB is now planning to start eco-Ganpati idol camps much early next time. First sensitization camp with Mumbaikars and idol makers may be conducted in January 2013. It will provide clay idol makers enough time to fulfil the huge demands in the city.
Big or small clay idols take 3-4 day to ready while plaster of Paris idols can be made within 3-4 hours. This comes as a major hurdle for idol makers and suppliers. The MPCB wants to fill the gap of demand and supply while promoting cause of environment. Also huge number of jobs will be created for village people.
“In 2010, when we launched the campaign of clay idol for the first time, people and government agencies were sceptical about its success. Though we started it without much planning, it was welcomed by people and 1,800 clay idols were sold. In 2011, the figure reached 18,000. This year, 50,000 idols were sold across Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai. Also, over 20,000 clay idols were made for home Ganpati.” The MPCB has made five artificial ponds for immersion this year. The number will be much more next year.
Though MPCB is working hard to sensitize people, it failed to bring big Ganpati mandals, who still use big and glamorous plaster of Paris idols, along with the move. Official claimed that big mandals are reluctant to MPCB’s request despite repeated attempts.
Sanjay Bhuskute, pollution board PRO, said, “Though we don’t have mandatory clay idols, polluting water is prohibited as per the MPCB rules. The BMC has the power to stop immersion of idols in lakes and sea.”
Sachin Ahir, minister of environment, said, “We can have stricter rules in place but its better if we make people aware rather than forcing them to abide the rules.”
