Patna: The Patna district administration has issued new instructions for idol making and immersion ahead of the upcoming festive season. These rules have been shared to make sure that celebrations are held in a safe and eco-friendly way. The District Magistrate has directed puja committees, local bodies and officials to follow the standards strictly.
As per the order, the Bihar (Procedure for Immersion of Idols after Puja) Rules, 2021, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 must be followed. Idols will have a maximum height of 20 feet, and the structures or pandals should not be taller than 40 feet. Idols will be made using natural materials like clay and bamboo. Plaster of Paris (POP) is completely banned. Toxic and artificial chemical colours cannot be used, and idols should be painted only with natural, water-soluble colours.
To protect rivers from pollution, idol immersion will not be allowed in natural water bodies. Instead, artificial ponds will be used for immersions. Officials have been asked to check that these ponds are safe and ready. They must also make sure that immersion routes remain clear of encroachments and that proper waste management is done by collecting biodegradable materials separately before immersions.
The District Magistrate said that puja committees must be informed about these rules and must take responsibility for following them. Sub-Divisional Officers and police officers will inspect the artificial ghats and ensure that the arrangements are in place. These steps are meant to keep the environment safe, avoid water pollution and allow people to celebrate festivals without harming nature.
