Visakhapatnam, September 9, 2013: A number of organisations in the city are joining hands to create awareness on the eco-friendly materials that go into the making of Ganesha idols during Ganesh Chaturthi. Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) has initiated distribution of clay idols at subsidised rates of Rs.10 each at various Rythu Bazars located at MVP Colony, Seethammadhara, Narasimhanagar, Gopalapatnam and Poorna Market apart from APPCB office at Madhavadhara VUDA Colony.

Pamphlets released

District Collector Solomon Arokia Raj released the pamphlets that highlight the advantages of using natural colours and eco-friendly materials while making idols.

The board plans to distribute them, in both Telugu and English, among schoolchildren, NGOs and general public.

Supporting a similar cause, Rotary Club Vizag Couples initiated ‘Ganesha goes green’ where the club intends to distribute clay idols free of cost. The programme, supported by Pollocks School, focuses on reducing the contamination of marine life and bringing down the harmful effects induced by immersing Ganesh idols made of plaster-of-paris. Those who want to bring home eco-friendly Ganesh can visit Sampath Vinayagar Temple on Sunday between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.

Awareness programme

To help propagate use of eco-friendly Ganesha idols, an awareness programme is organised by Bala Vikas Foundation at Bala Karmika Vidya Vikasa Kendram from 10 a.m. on Saturday, according to secretary of the foundation Narava Prakasa Rao.

Adding a new dimension to the collective initiative, Ravindra Bharathi School, Dwarakanagar branch took out a rally to promote use of eco-friendly idols. Principal of the school T. Sri Devi briefed about the significance of the festival. Dean of North Andhra zone G.R. Vasantha, staff members and students participated in the event.

Source: The Hindu, September 9, 2013