Delhi bars idol immersion in Yamuna outside designated sites

Idols cannot be immersed in the Yamuna or any other Delhi water body unless local authorities have marked out a designated site, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee has said ahead of Ganeshotsav and Durga Puja.

Its September 9 order asks municipal bodies to set up temporary immersion facilities and artificial ponds near residential areas. Residents and puja committees can also use buckets or temporary artificial ponds at homes, residential premises and parks; the decanted water may be used for gardening.

Idol makers and sellers have been directed to use natural clay, biodegradable materials and natural dyes. Plaster of Paris idols are not to be allowed for immersion in water bodies. Flowers and paper decorations must be removed beforehand and disposed of separately, with biodegradable material sent for composting or recycling.

District magistrates must enforce the directions. Municipal bodies and Delhi Police will check vehicles entering the city with prohibited idols and act against unlicensed or unregistered illegal idol-making units. Violators may face ₹50,000 in environmental compensation, while breaches under the Water Act can also carry imprisonment of up to six years and a fine.

The DPCC will monitor water quality before, during and after immersion. Agencies must file weekly action-taken reports through September and October.