OneWorld.net (U.S.)

New Delhi: Idol immersion during the Durga Puja festival this year is going to take much more than wetting your feet. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has asked worshippers to read its book of guidelines before heading for water.

The seven-point guidelines sent by CPCB to all State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) for implementation say water quality is affected when idols are immersed in water bodies.

CPCB says studies conducted by it have shown that idol immersion during festive occasions like Vinayaka Chaturthi and Durga Puja is putting "significant stress" (meaning pollution) on rivers, lakes and local ponds.

"Studies carried out by CPCB and a few State Pollution Control Boards indicated that water quality is affected in terms of turbidity, conductivity and elevated levels of metals," says the Board.

Under the guidelines, local civic bodies have been asked to identify adequate number of designated immersion centres to reduce pollution. The civic bodies will notify the immersion centres a month before the festivals.

Source: New Kerala.com