Question : Study on Impact of PoP

whether there is no regulation on the use and sale of idols made of Plaster of Paris (PoP) which is causing damage to the environment;
(b) if so, whether the Government or any other agency has conducted any definite and comprehensive scientific study on the impact of PoP on the environment;
(c) if so, the details and outcome thereof;
(d) whether a study conducted by some private agency/body has revealed a steep rise in concentration of heavy metals, dissolved solids, acid content and a drop in dissolved oxygen;
(e) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto;
(f) whether the NGT has ordered State Pollution Control Boards to constitute Expert Committees to study the impact of PoP on water bodies; and
(g) if so, the details and status thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE

(SHRI PRAKASH JAVADEKAR)

(a) Guidelines for immersion of idols have been formulated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2010.

(b)&(c) Maharashtra and West Bengal State Pollution Control Boards have conducted studies on impact of immersion of Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols in water bodies. CPCB studied the impact of immersion of idols during Dussehra Festival on River Hugli and published its findings in a report. Draft Guidelines for Idols Immersion have been formulated by CPCB.

(d)&(e) The steepness of rise in concentration of heavy metals, dissolved solids, acid content and drop in oxygen is dependent on dilution available and depends upon the site specific conditions.

(f) Yes, Sir.

(g) Order of National Green Tribunal (NGT) was circulated to all State Pollution Control Boards / Pollution Control Committees (SPCBs/ PCCs). The SPCBs/ PCCs have constituted Expert Committees and conducted study on the impact of immersion of PoP made idols on water quality of river, ponds, seas or other sources. The compliance status was submitted by CPCB to NGT.

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