Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 24:The Andaman and Nicobar Administration’s Pollution Control Committee, Department of Science and Technology, has issued a public notice reiterating the guidelines under the Andaman and Nicobar Idol Immersion Rules, 2018. These rules were originally notified in Gazette No. 23 dated 5 March 2018, in compliance with the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal’s order dated 6 October 2017 in O.A. 51/2016/EZ.
The guidelines direct all idol makers and Puja Committees to strictly adhere to environmentally safe practices. Idols must be crafted from natural materials as prescribed in holy scriptures, with traditional clay encouraged over baked clay or Plaster of Paris (POP). The use of POP remains completely banned until it is proven to have no adverse impact on water quality and aquatic biodiversity.
Painting of idols should be minimal, and when necessary, only water-soluble and non-toxic natural dyes are to be used. The use of synthetic colours is strictly prohibited for idols meant for immersion. Additionally, the superstructure height must not exceed 40 feet, while the idol itself should be within a maximum height of 20 feet.
The notice further states that all worship materials, including flowers, clothes, and decorative items, must be removed before immersion. Biodegradable materials should be sent for composting or recycling, while non-biodegradable items are to be disposed of as per municipal guidelines. Clothes may be donated to local orphanages.
Immersion is to be carried out only at designated sites between the low tide and high tide lines, with prior permission from the District Administration. The use of single-use plastic during celebrations is strictly banned.
The Administration has appealed to the public, idol makers, and Puja Committees to comply with these eco-friendly measures to protect marine ecosystems and water quality in the islands.
