National Green Tribunal mandates coastal permission for Ganesh idol immersion

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ruled that permission from the Tamil Nadu Coastal Zone Management Authority is mandatory for immersing Ganesh idols in the sea. This directive follows concerns regarding water pollution caused by idol immersion during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

The ruling emphasizes that immersion should not be permitted in ecologically sensitive areas such as the Ennore coast or Pudupet beach without proper regulatory clearance. In response to the legal proceedings, the Tamil Nadu government stated it follows guidelines established by the Supreme Court, High Court, and the NGT to manage pollution. Authorities are also exploring the possibility of creating artificial ponds for idol immersion as an alternative to using natural water bodies.