Pollution board finds 24 idols with PoP content in checks across state

Panaji: The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB), during random checks, found 24 Ganesh idols across Goa with the plaster of paris (PoP) content exceeding 10%.In total, 207 samples were collected, and of the 160 that were analysed, 24 indicated the presence of PoP exceeding 10%.

These samples were collected from Aug 4 to Aug 13.Random samples were collected from chitrashallas, shops, and artisans from areas including Quepem, Ponda, Panaji, Porvorim, Pernem, and Mormugao. The report of another 47 samples collected from Aug 18 to 21 is awaited.The GSPCB sent its report to the excise commissioner, DGP, collectors, commissioner of state taxes, the director of municipal administration, and the director of panchayats for action.PoP is not a naturally occurring material, and such idols are known to take time to dissolve in water.The GSPCB has asked the DGP to issue directions to police officers to take appropriate action against the offenders.“Also, in case of transport of such PoP idols by rail, police officers should check the cargo on arrival and ensure that the same is not allowed to exit the railway station,” the board said.The heavy metals concentration in the water after PoP idol immersion also shows an increase in the concentration of lead and cadmium, which can be toxic and harmful to the aquatic environment as well as human beings. The GSPCB has told the director of municipal administration and the director of panchayats to give directions to municipal councils and panchayats not to grant any licences to establishments selling PoP idols.