Team Herald
PANJIM: A day after Ganesh idols made of Plaster of Paris (PoP) immersed after one and a half days washed ashore at Caranzalem beach, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) officials visited Miramar and Caranzalem beaches and collected samples of the idols and the water on Tuesday.
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The officials said the water and the idols will be tested to check the quantity of PoP used in making the idols and level of contamination in the sea.
Speaking to reporters, Denza Cardozo, GSPCB scientist, said, “We have been deputed by our office to inspect the Miramar and Caranzalem stretch and check if there are any Ganesh idols lying on the beach. We have collected the samples and proceeded with the analysis in the lab. We will try to find out whether these idols are made of clay or PoP.”
However, she did not commit when the report would be released.
Dozens of Ganesh idols made of PoP immersed after one and a half days of Ganesh Chaturthi washed ashore at Caranzalem beach on Monday, raising pollution concerns.
This happened in spite of strict guidelines and complete ban by the Board on use of PoP for making Ganesh idols.
People prefer the PoP idols as they are lighter in weight when compared to the clay idols. The problem is that the PoP idols do not dissolve in water.
Meanwhile, speaking to O Heraldo, State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) Chairman Mahesh Patil said, “A team was sent to collect samples of idols and water. We will put them to test to know whether the idols were made of PoP or clay. Water samples will also be tested to determine level of contamination. The report is likely to be ready in three or four days.”
Oppn slams govt for failing to prevent import of PoP Ganesh idols into Goa
MARGAO: The Opposition has sharply criticised the State government for its failure to prevent the import of Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idols into Goa.
In a statement, Goa Forward Party president and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai condemned the government’s lack of action and oversight, emphasising the need for stricter regulations to protect local traditions and the environment.
Describing the situation as ‘heart breaking’, he criticised the government’s inadequate response and calling for more stringent measures. Sardesai said, “I had warned earlier. After that, the Chief Minister promised to take ‘strict action’ and ‘adequate vigilance’. But it has now been proved that these assurances were hollow.”
He criticised the government’s failure to follow through on its commitments, leading to the ongoing issue with PoP Ganesh idols. Sardesai further said that many God-fearing Goans, including himself, are deeply saddened by the sight of Ganesh idols washed ashore. He called this a clear reflection of the government’s gross negligence and its failure to act in the best interests of Goa.
