The Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) on August 11, 2025, issued a circular appealing to observe pollution free Ganesh Puja, Khudurukuni Puja, Biswakarma Puja, Durga Puja, Kali Puja, Gajalaxmi Puja, and Saraswati Puja.
The following has been stated namely: -
• It directs Puja Committees, local bodies, and individuals to ensure eco-friendly idol making using natural clay and water-soluble dyes instead of Plaster of Paris or toxic chemicals. The height of idols is restricted to 20 ft and the total structure to 40 ft.
• Idol immersion shall only be done at designated immersion sites/temporary ponds identified by District Authorities, with all decorative and puja materials removed beforehand and disposed of at municipal dump sites without burning or use of single-use plastic/thermocol.
• Local bodies are required to raise awareness, create immersion ponds, and clean immersion sites within 24 hours, treating leftover water with lime.
• Individual households are encouraged to use small eco-friendly idols and immerse them at home or in artificial/local tanks.
• Penal provisions include a ban on idol making for 2 years for idol makers violating norms, and monetary penalties on Puja Committees ranging from ₹3,000 (Panchayat areas) to ₹7,000 (Municipal Corporations) for violations.
[Notification no. - VISC(LEM) Proj.69/24-25]
