Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Aug 30: The Municipal Commissioner of Udupi has issued instructions to celebrate the Gauri Ganesha festival in an eco-friendly manner.

In an official statement, the commissioner emphasized, “Immersing chemically-laced Ganesha idols in rivers and other water bodies leads to water pollution and harms aquatic life. To protect water resources, idols should be made of clay without chemicals and should be immersed at designated spots.”

The commissioner also stated that it is mandatory to obtain permission from the city municipality to install public Ganesha idols. For the immersion procession, permission must be secured from the concerned department to use sound systems. Before immersing the idol, flower garlands and other hazardous materials should be removed, and only the idol should be immersed in water. None of the materials used during the pooja of Lord Ganesha should be immersed in water bodies.

Additionally, the health department of the city municipality can be contacted for waste disposal in areas where public poojas are held. The commissioner also encouraged the use of Ganesha idols made from pulses, flower seeds, and vegetables to further promote eco-friendly practices.