In Pune, India, and across the country, the immersion of idols of gods and goddesses in rivers is a common practice during religious festivals. While this tradition is deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, it has significant environmental consequences, particularly in terms of river pollution.
The Problem
The immersion of idols made from materials such as plaster of Paris (PoP), clay, and various paints introduces harmful pollutants into our water bodies https://science.thewire.in/environment/polluting-gods-a-photo-story-on-the-environmental-impact-of-idol-immersion/.
These pollutants include heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium, as well as organic waste and chemical residues https://www.biotech-asia.org/vol18no1/a-review-on-current-status-of-riverine-pollution-in-india/. According to a study by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the immersion of Ganesh idols alone has led to a 100% increase in Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and a significant rise in heavy metal content in water https://blog.ipleaders.in/idol-immersions-critical-analysis-cases-water-pollution-precautionary-principle/.
Figures and Facts
Heavy Metals: The concentration of heavy metals like iron and copper in water bodies has increased by up to 10 times due to idol immersion https://blog.ipleaders.in/idol-immersions-critical-analysis-cases-water-pollution-precautionary-principle/.
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD): Rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna have recorded BOD levels up to 10 times higher than the permissible limit, indicating severe pollution https://groundreport.in/351-polluted-rivers-in-india-a-list-of-states/.
Polluted Rivers: Over 46% of India’s rivers, including major ones like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari, are polluted https://groundreport.in/351-polluted-rivers-in-india-a-list-of-states/. Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab are among the states with the highest number of polluted rivers https://groundreport.in/351-polluted-rivers-in-india-a-list-of-states/.
Environmental Impact
The pollutants from idol immersion not only degrade water quality but also harm aquatic life. Fish and other aquatic organisms ingest these pollutants, which can then enter the human food chain, posing health risks https://science.thewire.in/environment/polluting-gods-a-photo-story-on-the-environmental-impact-of-idol-immersion/. Additionally, the accumulation of non-biodegradable materials like PoP and plastic decorations clogs waterways, affecting the natural flow and ecosystem balance.
Towards a Sustainable Future
To mitigate the environmental impact, it is crucial to adopt eco-friendly practices for idol making and immersion. Using natural materials like clay and natural dyes, and promoting community-led clean-up drives post-immersion can help reduce pollution. Public awareness campaigns and stricter regulations on idol immersion practices can also play a significant role in protecting our rivers.