Mumbai: Amid restrictions on usage and immersion of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols, ahead of the Ganpati festival, the BMC has distributed a record 900 metric tonnes of shadu clay to 486 artisans in Mumbai.
To encourage the artisans to use eco-friendly materials to make idols, the BMC distributes clay free of cost. By the time the festival arrives, a total of 1000 metric tonnes of clay is expected to be distributed. Last year, only 613 metric tonnes of clay was distributed.
“The shadu clay is distributed on first-come-first basis at the ward level to artisans who apply online. This year, the applications are much higher than last year, which is a positive sign towards celebrating the festival in an environmentally friendly manner,” said a civic official.
Across 24 wards in Mumbai, a maximum of 96 metric tonnes of clay for Ganpati idols so far has been distributed in K-East ward (Andheri, Jogeshwari, Vile Parle East), followed by 91 metric tonnes in G-North ward (Dadar, Mahim), 77 metric tonnes in P-North ward (Malad), and 73 metric tonnes each in D (Grant Road, Malabar Hill) and N ward (Ghatkopar).
The Bombay High Court in January had put a complete ban on the usage of PoP idols following the Central Pollution Control Board guidelines; however, last month the court reversed its order and allowed the manufacture of PoP idols and banned immersion in natural water bodies.
However, BMC’s plan to distribute natural colours to paint the Ganpati idols does not seem to be materialising as maximum artisans have already made the idols. “The idea to distribute natural colours was to encourage artisans to make clay idols wholeheartedly. However, the tender has not been allotted yet,” said an official from BMC environment department.
