Karwar: Deputy Commissioner SS Nakul stated that the Plaster of Paris and painted idols production, sale or disposal in any festival is forbidden.

In the wake of mass disaster on environment caused by PoP and painted idols, the State government has banned the PoP and painted statues in the district, he said in his statement.

Recently, it has been found that the public are celebrating festivals by discharging PoP and painted idols in water resources like ponds and lakes.

After investigation by Karwar State pollution control Board (KSPCB), it has found that water is contaminated due to dissolution of PoP and painted idols, which causes severe problems. Dispol of PoP and painted idols is forbidden in upcoming festivals.

Local Authorities, Tahsildars, Executive officers have been directed to ensure ban on production, sale and disposal of PoP and painted idols.