No Ganesh Idol Immersion In Water Bodies From 2027, Tamil Nadu Tells National Green Tribunal

In a bid to reduce environmental impact, the government of Tamil Nadu has informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that Ganesh idols will no longer be immersed in water bodies in the state starting from 2027. This decision follows a petition seeking a ban on idol immersion due to the environmental damage caused by the practice.

The assurance comes during the hearing of the petition, which argues that idols made with plaster of Paris, paints, chemicals and other materials can pollute water bodies and harm aquatic life. The petitioner also proposed creating temporary artificial water bodies for idol immersion.

Tamil Nadu plans to prohibit immersion of Ganesh idols at Foreshore Estate beaches in Chennai and Neelankarai starting next year. The state government will also work towards preventing idol immersion in natural water bodies from 2027, following guidelines from the Supreme Court, Madras High Court and NGT.

The submission from Tamil Nadu to the NGT comes as concerns over pollution of rivers, lakes, ponds and other water bodies during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations grow. Idols made with materials like plaster of Paris, chemical paints and decorative items contribute to water pollution and generate non-biodegradable waste.