Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 28 August 2025
The Andaman and Nicobar Administration, through its Pollution Control Committee under the Department of Science and Technology, has issued a public notice reiterating guidelines for eco-friendly idol immersion during festivals.
The guidelines, framed under the Andaman and Nicobar Idol Immersion Rules 2018, were published in compliance with the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal’s order dated 6 October 2017. They aim to regulate idol-making practices and prevent environmental pollution of the water bodies.
According to the notice, all idol makers and Puja Committees are required to follow specific measures:
• Idols should be crafted from natural materials as prescribed in holy scriptures. Use of traditional clay is encouraged, allowed and promoted, while Plaster of Paris (POP) and baked clay are discouraged.
• Synthetic colours are strictly banned, and only water-soluble, non-toxic natural dyes may be used for painting idols.
• The height of idols should not exceed 20 feet, and their superstructures should be under 40 feet.
• Materials used during worship, such as flowers, clothes, and decorative items, must be removed before immersion. Biodegradable waste should be collected for recycling or composting, while non-biodegradable items should be disposed of in designated landfills. Clothes may be donated to local orphanages.
• Idol immersion must occur between the low and high tide lines at designated locations with prior permission from the District Administration.
• The use of single-use plastics during celebrations is prohibited.
(Story Based on PR)
