Greens root for eco-Ganesha

Greens root for eco-Ganesha

Environmentalists are asking idol makers in the city to use eco-friendly paints

By Lavanya Srinivasan
Posted On Monday, September 01, 2008

It was six years ago that an environmentalist launched a campaign in the city to save lakes from harmful chemicals. During this year’s Ganesha Chaturthi, environmentalists are taking their campaign to the source - idol makers.

The ‘greens’ have been going around places where Ganesha idols are made and advocating use of paints with no lead as this metal can prove fatal for the life-forms in lakes and other water bodies.

This initiative was launched by Dr Venkatesh, HoD, biochemistry department, St John’s Hospital, six years ago to save lakes from harmful chemicals, he said. “After six years of hard work, we have seen the fruits of success,” said Dr Venkatesh, who feels people are becoming aware of chemicals’ harmful effects.

Noted environmentalist Yellappa Reddy said, “We are working towards a green city and telling the people to use mud Ganesha idols instead of painted ones.”

The BBMP too is doing its bit in this cause. In a bid to prevent pollution of lakes, the civic body will take special tankers to various areas to help the people immerse Ganesha idols. “Big tankers will be brought in to prevent pollution in lakes,” said S Subramanya, Commissioner, BBMP.

The BBMP has also come out with some guidelines for those keeping idols in pandals. It has suggested usage of fire-resistance materials for erecting pandals.


Avoid Majestic area

“Due to festival rush and introduction of additional buses, Kempe Gowda road, Seshadri road and other areas around Majestic area should be avoided after 6 pm for the next three days”, reads an SMS sent by police department.

With Ganesh Chaturthi nearing, the police are taking precautionary measures to avoid congestion of K G Bus stand. A police official told Bangalore Mirror, “We often witness heavy traffic during festivals and all the approach roads get jammed. Hence, it is suggested for those travelling from Majestic bus stands to arrive before time so that they do not miss the bus to destination”.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will deploy more than 150 buses on September 1 and 2 to clear the festival rush.