Friday, 17 July 2026 MUMBAI EDITION LIVE

HC Orders Ganesh Idol Makers To Ditch PoP

Makers must switch to eco-friendly materials. HC hears PIL on pollution.

Mumbai Alert · City Desk
Mumbai Alert · City Desk
City Desk · Mumbai Alert News · Fri, 17 July 2026 at 08:48 am
HC Orders Ganesh Idol Makers To Ditch PoP

A significant development has taken place in the Bombay High Court, where a division bench comprising Justices AS Gadkari and Kamal Khata has directed Ganesh idol makers to stop using Plaster of Paris (PoP) in their creations. This move comes after the court heard a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Rohit Joshi, a resident of Thane.

The PIL sought the implementation of guidelines set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which prohibits the manufacture and immersion of PoP idols. The CPCB's guidelines aim to reduce pollution caused by the immersion of these idols in water bodies.

The court's decision is a crucial step towards mitigating environmental pollution. The use of PoP in idol making has been a long-standing concern, as it does not dissolve easily in water and can harm aquatic life. By switching to eco-friendly materials, idol makers can help reduce the negative impact on the environment.

The CPCB's guidelines have been in place for some time now, but their implementation has been lacking. The court's intervention is expected to ensure that these guidelines are adhered to, and idol makers make a conscious effort to use environmentally friendly materials.

Ganesh Chaturthi is a significant festival in Maharashtra, and the immersion of idols is an integral part of the celebrations. However, this practice has been causing concern among environmentalists, who have been advocating for the use of eco-friendly materials.

The Bombay High Court's decision is a welcome move, as it will help reduce pollution in the state's water bodies. The court's directive is also expected to raise awareness about the importance of using eco-friendly materials in idol making.

The switch to eco-friendly materials is not expected to be a significant challenge for idol makers, as several alternatives are available. These alternatives include clay, paper, and other biodegradable materials that can be used to create idols.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness about the need to protect the environment. The court's decision is a step in the right direction, as it will help reduce pollution and promote sustainable practices.

The implementation of the CPCB's guidelines is expected to have a positive impact on the environment. The court's directive is a significant development, and it is expected to pave the way for a more environmentally friendly Ganesh Chaturthi celebration in the future.

The decision is also expected to have a broader impact, as it will raise awareness about the importance of using eco-friendly materials in other festivals and celebrations. As the state prepares for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, the court's directive is a timely reminder of the need to prioritize environmental sustainability.

In conclusion, the Bombay High Court's decision is a significant step towards reducing environmental pollution. The directive to switch to eco-friendly materials is a welcome move, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the state's water bodies. As the state moves forward, it is essential to prioritize environmental sustainability and promote eco-friendly practices in all aspects of life.

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