Pune: PMC Releases Guidelines for Eco-Friendly Ganeshotsav Celebrations as per High Court Orders

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has released updated guidelines for celebrating an eco-friendly Ganeshotsav this year. The move comes following orders from the Maharashtra High Court and aims to ensure that environment is not harmed during festivities. These revised guidelines will apply to all festivals until March 2026.

One of the prominent changes is for Plaster of Paris (POP) idols. Manufacturers and sellers must now mark the back of each POP idol with a clear red circle using oil paint. They are also required to maintain a record of all POP idols sold.

For large public idols, symbolic smaller idols should be used for immersion, and the same large idol should be reused in future years. Only natural, biodegradable materials like traditional clay should be used for idol making. POP, plastics, polystyrene, or other toxic materials are strictly prohibited.

POP idols for domestic use and those under six feet in height should be immersed only in artificial ponds. For larger idols, immersion in natural water bodies is allowed only if no other option is available.

Decoration should rely on natural items like dried flowers or leaves. Eco-friendly, water-based paints or biodegradable natural colors must be used for painting idols, and artificial or toxic paints are banned. Removable and washable decorations made from natural materials are recommended.

Before immersion, any leftover artificial materials should be collected separately for eco-friendly recycling or reuse.

For more details, residents can contact the PMC Environment Department at 020-25501023 or 020-25501041 or connect via the PMC CARE citizen engagement platform @pmccarepune.