GUWHATI: The Central Government has issued a directive to state governments to take measures to prohibit immersion of idols in river Ganga and its tributaries, during festivals.
The Centre has levied a fine of Rs. 50,000 and cordoning of ghats. The 15-point directive was issued by the National Mission for Clean Ganga to chief secretaries in 11 Ganga basin states.
Reportedly, the officials were strictly directed to implement the norms and asked to make suitable alternatives arrangements in an environment friendly manner.
The large-scale immersion during festivals such as Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Viswakarma Puja, Chhath Puja and Saraswati Puja have led to rise in pollutants at an alarming level.
In June 2014, the Centre launched the Namami Gange programme with budget outlay of Rs.20,000 Crore to accomplish the twin objectives of effective abatement of pollution, conservation and rejuvenation of National River Ganga.
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