Maharashtra Pollution Control Board Launches Eco-Friendly Ganesha Murti App

Mobile application facilitates access to environmentally sustainable Ganesha idols.

3 June 2024

By Payoshi Bisht

In a pioneering move towards promoting eco-friendly practices during the festive season, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has announced the development of a mobile application dedicated to facilitating the procurement of environmentally sustainable Ganesha idols. The app aims to provide citizens with easy access to information about eco-friendly sculptors across the state, encouraging the adoption of greener alternatives for the upcoming festivities.

The initiative comes as a response to the growing concern over environmental degradation caused by the immersion of traditional plaster-of-paris idols in water bodies. By focusing solely on environmentally friendly idols, the app seeks to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices and reduce the environmental impact of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Through the app, citizens will be able to explore a comprehensive database of eco-friendly Ganesha idols and locate nearby vendors offering these environmentally sustainable alternatives. This streamlined approach aims to promote the widespread adoption of eco-friendly practices by making it easier for individuals to make informed choices about their festive decorations.

Sanjay Bhuskute, PRO, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, spoke about the app and stated, “Our upcoming environmental initiative is aimed at addressing the concerns raised by citizens regarding the difficulty in finding eco-friendly Ganesh idol makers. Our initiative involves the development of a user-friendly app that will serve as a common platform for spreading awareness about eco-friendly Ganesh idols. This app will provide detailed information about idol makers, including their locations and contact numbers. Users will also have the ability to view photos of the idols available. We are excited to launch this app within the next 15 days and believe it will significantly contribute to promoting sustainability during festive celebrations.”

Furthermore, the app will serve as a platform for eco-friendly sculptors and manufacturers to showcase their offerings. Firms interested in participating are requested to provide essential information, including firm name, proprietor name, firm description, workplace address, contact number, email address, website (if applicable), Google location and firm logo and photos. The information is to be submitted in both Marathi and English languages by 10th June, 2024.

Citizens interested in acquiring eco-friendly Ganesha idols can directly contact the listed idol makers through the app, facilitating a seamless transaction process. By centralising information and resources, the MPCB aims to catalyse the market for eco-friendly idols and promote sustainable choices among the public.