GUWAHATI, Oct 12 - To ensure that the celebration of the much-awaited Durga Puja are completed without any adverse impact on the environment, the Eco Tourism Society of North East has appealed to the people not to buy Durga idols made with Plaster of Paris (PoP) and instead look for idols that are made with papier mache, clay or metal.
According to a functionary of the Society, Puja celebrations should not create any environmental hazard.
�In the interest of our environment, we should make sure that when we choose a clay model, the colours used on it are eco-friendly and do not contain metallic compounds which can be poisonous for the aquatic life,� urged Gautam Dutta, president of the Society, calling for reducing the size of the Durga idols, as this will also reduce the harm caused by its immersion.
The Society has also called for going green on the decoration front. �Instead of going for decoration made from thermocol, we can use innovative ideas for decorations like colourful flowers, lights, cloth drapes, etc. By going for a simple celebration, we can keep the essence of the festival alive along with its traditional and religious aspects,� mentioned Dutta.
On the other hand, the Society has also suggested a set of guidelines for the day of immersion. It has called for immersion of the idols at artificial ponds and not in rivers and lakes.
�The Puja revellers should remember not to throw flowers, garlands in the water while immersion, and instead dispose them in a paper bag or waste bins installed by the municipality. For the sake of maintaining public peace, we request all to avoid using bands or high-decibel loudspeakers which cause nuisance to young and old alike,� said Dutta.
The Society has called upon the citizens to get united and have a common Puja idol which will not only strengthen individual bonds, but also reduce ecological pollution.
