Guidelines issued for Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations in Dindigul
The Dindigul District Administration has issued strict guidelines for Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations, mandating the use of eco-friendly materials for idols. The rules prohibit toxic paints and non-biodegradable materials to protect local waterbodies.
Why it matters
This reflects a growing trend in India of local governments enforcing environmental regulations during large-scale religious festivals to mitigate pollution.
The Dindigul District Administration has urged the public to celebrate the Vinayaka Chathurthi festival by immersing the idols only in the places notified for the purpose and by following the guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
According to the press release, the idols made of natural, biodegradable, eco-friendly raw materials without any toxic, inorganic raw materials, Plaster of Paris or thermocol (polystyrene) alone would be permitted for immersion in the waterbodies.
Only dried flowers, straw, etc, would be allowed to make ornaments for the idols, and natural resins of trees could be used for polishing them. The use of single-use plastic and thermocol was strictly prohibited. Eco-friendly materials should be used in making or decorating idols, pandals and tazias to prevent pollution of waterbodies.
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