The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) on August 26, 2025, notified regarding the implementation of guidelines for immersion of idols on the festive occasion of Ganeshotsav and Durga Pooja.
The following has been stated namely: -
• It has issued directions to regulate idol immersion during Ganeshotsav, Durga Puja, and similar festivals to prevent pollution of the Yamuna and other water bodies. POP-based idols and idols painted with toxic chemicals (lead, mercury, chromium, cadmium, etc.) are strictly prohibited for immersion, and only natural clay and biodegradable materials with eco-friendly dyes are permitted.
• Worship materials like flowers and decorative paper shall be removed before immersion, with biodegradable waste composted and non-biodegradable waste disposed in sanitary landfills.
• Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are directed to create artificial/temporary ponds for immersions, enforce checks on illegal idol-making, and stop the transport of prohibited idols into Delhi.
• The general public and RWAs are encouraged to adopt in-house immersion practices such as buckets or artificial ponds, with post-immersion water reused for gardening.
• Violators of NMCG and DPCC directives face ₹50,000 environmental compensation and possible imprisonment under the Water Act, 1974, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
• DPCC will also conduct water quality monitoring before, during, and after immersions, while all agencies shall submit weekly action taken reports during September–October 2025.
[Notification no. - DPCC/IM/E-file- 249402/276-286]
