Sikkim, September 22 (Siliguri Chronicle) – The Sikkim government has rolled out strict guidelines for Durga Puja organisers this year, putting the spotlight on eco-friendly celebrations. The rules include a blanket ban on non-biodegradable materials for both idols and pandals.
Durga Puja holds special significance for the state’s Nepali community. In recent years, Gangtok and towns like Rangpo, near the Bengal border, have seen an increase in community Pujas marked by elaborate pandals and festivities.
According to a notice issued by the State Pollution Control Board, “non-biodegradable items are strictly prohibited for making idols and pandal decorations.”
Released on September 13, the notification lays down the most detailed set of guidelines so far for Durga Puja organisers in Sikkim, aimed at ensuring eco-friendly and sustainable celebrations in the hill state.
Officials from Sikkim’s forest and environment department said sub-divisional magistrates and block development officers have been asked to set up coordination committees. These panels will include representatives from both government and non-government bodies to monitor and curb pollution during the Puja celebrations in the hill state.
“Each committee will be chaired by either the SDM or BDOs, and will include members from the police, NGOs, local authorities, Puja committee representatives and other stakeholders of the area,” said a source.
The government’s restrictions include a complete ban on the use of Plaster of Paris for idols, along with synthetic paints containing toxic heavy metals and plastic colours. The guidelines also make it clear that no toxic materials will be allowed in pandal decorations.
“The aim behind these restrictions is also to stop the deterioration of water quality here during idol immersion on Vijaya Dashami (called Dashain here),” said a source.
District officials have been directed to identify suitable immersion sites along riverbanks. The State Pollution Control Board has also ruled that even biodegradable materials cannot be dumped into water bodies during idol immersion.
“The concerned local bodies/organisation/NGO or any individual may use these materials for composting and any other useful purpose,” the order states.
The order also bans the sale and use of single-use plastic items such as thermocol decorations, plastic plates, cups, glasses, trays, packaging films for sweet boxes and even carry-bags below 120 microns in thickness.
It further warns that violations could result in organisers facing temporary or even permanent bans on holding Pujas in the future.
A Durga Puja organiser in Gangtok said the new rules might slightly raise expenses but welcomed the move, calling it a step in the right direction.
“Our city is located at an elevation of 1,650 metres. It is imperative that we celebrate Durga Puja responsibly and work towards conserving the environment of our fragile mountainous ecosystem. The directive from the state government is most welcome,” said the Puja organiser.
