Home / Environment / Chennai Devotees Defy Rules During Vinayagar Idol Immersion
Chennai Devotees Defy Rules During Vinayagar Idol Immersion
20 Sep
Summary
- Hundreds of devotees participated in Vinayagar idol immersion ceremonies.
- Environmental norms were violated with plaster of paris idols.
- Inadequate arrangements led to frustration among puja teams.
Hundreds of devotees in Chennai participated in Vinayagar idol immersions on Sunday, with large idols exceeding 8ft being lowered by cranes. The festivities saw a significant police and home guard deployment across six city locations.
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, environmental norms were flouted as many idols made of plaster of paris were immersed, contrary to Central Pollution Control Board guidelines. Debris from these idols was found on Pattinapakkam and Neelangarai beaches.
Devotees also bypassed rules by not removing ornaments and immersing idols at unauthorized spots. Puja teams expressed frustration over insufficient arrangements, citing a shortage of cranes for the numerous large idols. Corporation officials explained that deployment plans were revised due to logistical uncertainties.
Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board officials are scheduled to conduct water sample tests on Monday to assess the environmental impact.
