Dharwad district bans plaster idols ahead of Ganesh festival season

The district administration in Dharwad has announced a comprehensive ban on plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idols ahead of the upcoming festival season, enforcing stricter environmental regulations in the region. The order prohibits the manufacture, sale, storage, and use of idols made from PoP and other chemically treated materials, aiming to reduce water pollution and environmental degradation caused by idol immersion in water bodies.

Official directives issued by the district administration stipulate that only clay idols, which are biodegradable and environmentally safe, are permitted for purchase and use during celebrations. The ban extends to traders and manufacturers, with enforcement mechanisms in place to monitor compliance across the district.

Concurrently, the administration has imposed strict noise pollution regulations during the festival period. Authorities have set a maximum permissible noise limit and announced a penalty structure that includes fines up to ₹1 lakh for violations involving excessive loudspeaker use or amplified music beyond prescribed decibel levels.

The dual initiative reflects growing environmental consciousness in the region, balancing cultural celebrations with ecological preservation. Similar measures have been adopted by other districts in Karnataka in recent years as awareness of festival-related environmental impacts has increased among residents and administrators.