Archive · 1 Sep 2026
Maharashtra Extends PoP Idol Immersion Rules Pending Bombay HC Verdict
Maharashtra has decided to keep using rules for immersing Plaster of Paris idols.
These rules will stay in place until the Bombay High Court gives further instructions.
The rules were first announced on August 1, 2025.
Small PoP idols up to six feet must be placed in artificial ponds.
Very large public idols can go into natural water only when there is no other choice.
Officials must clean the water body the next day if that happens.
Water and mud from artificial ponds must also be treated and reused where possible.
The government wants festivals to be celebrated while causing less harm to the environment.
Maharashtra will enforce its Plaster of Paris idol immersion guidelines until further orders from the Bombay High Court.
The rules, first issued on August 1, 2025, require PoP idols to carry a visible red circular mark.
Household and public PoP idols up to six feet must be immersed in artificial ponds.
Larger public idols may enter natural water bodies only if no alternative exists, followed by next-day cleanup.
Local bodies must treat immersion-pond water and silt, promote awareness, and separately collect religious offerings.
- Who
- The Maharashtra Environment and Climate Change Department, municipal bodies, idol makers, sellers and festival mandals are involved.
- What
- Maharashtra has extended enforcement of guidelines for Plaster of Paris idol immersion.
- When
- The guidelines were originally issued on August 1, 2025, and the extension was announced in a circular issued on Monday.
- Where
- Across Maharashtra, including artificial ponds and natural water bodies used for immersions.
- Why
- To follow Bombay High Court interim directions and support environmentally responsible festival celebrations.
- Guideline status
- The rules remain in force until further orders from the Bombay High Court.
- Original issue date
- August 1, 2025
- Marking requirement
- PoP idols must have a clearly visible red circular mark painted with oil paint on their rear side.
- Small-idol immersion
- Household and public PoP idols up to six feet must be immersed in artificial ponds.
- Large public idols
- Public PoP idols taller than six feet may be immersed in natural water only when no alternative is available.
- Water treatment
- Lime or alum should be used to treat artificial-pond water and silt within seven days.
- Silt reuse
- Collected silt should be stored for up to 15 days and subsequently reused with institutional assistance.