To ensure that drinking water sources are kept pollution free, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has asked people to use only eco-friendly Vinayaka idols for Vinayaka Chaturthi festival.
A release said that only idols made of natural, biodegradable and eco-friendly raw materials such as traditional virtuous soil and clay would be allowed for immersion in water bodies. Also, dried flower components and straw should be used for making idol ornaments and natural resins of trees should be used for shiny material.
The release said that the use of single-use plastic and thermocol materials would not be allowed. The use of toxic and non-biodegradable chemical dyes/oil paints for the painting of idols was strictly prohibited. Enamel and synthetic dye based paints on idols were discouraged, instead eco-friendly water based, bio-degradable and non-toxic natural dyes should be used.
Removable and washable decorative fabrics made of only natural materials and colors should be used for beautification of idols in place of disposable materials containing paints and other toxic chemicals, the release said. The idols should be immersed only at the places notified by the district administration following the guidelines specified by the TNPCB.