The Bombay High Court has mandated that all Ganesh idols under 6 feet made of Plaster of Paris (PoP) must be immersed only in artificial ponds across Maharashtra. Alternatively, a new policy permits only larger idols (over 6 feet) to be immersed in rivers and seas. The ruling, which also applies to Navratri and other festivals until March 2026, aims to reduce environmental harm while balancing tradition.

This ruling comes after protests over the environmental impact of immersing PoP idols in natural water bodies. The bench had earlier asked if arrangements could be made for idols between 7 to 8 feet, but Maharashtra’s Advocate General noted that while it’s possible, logistical challenges would make it difficult given the month-long gap before Ganpati celebrations.

Chief Justice Aradhe emphasised minimising environmental damage, referencing the aftermath of broken idols littering the seabed. The Advocate General assured the court that local bodies would clear remains from water bodies.

The court revised the state’s previous 5-feet rule after noting that over 7,800 larger idols were still polluting natural bodies. While activists pushed for a complete ban, the judges acknowledged logistical constraints, calling the new policy an "interim measure."

Authorities must now set up artificial tanks for 1.95 lakh smaller idols and form an expert panel to explore eco-friendly disposal methods. Larger idols can still be immersed in natural bodies, but with strict cleanup protocols. The order comes weeks before Ganesh Chaturthi, starting August 27.