Chennai’s beaches were left covered with broken Vinayaka idols and other waste after the idols were immersed in the sea following the week-long celebrations. Sanitation workers have been working to clear the debris and restore the beaches.
According to data from the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), around 92.965 tonnes of waste were collected from idol immersion locations between September 19 and 20. The waste included 9,413 Vinayaka idols, wooden pallets, flowers and other materials used during the celebrations.
Palavakkam recorded the highest quantity of waste, with about 77.2 tonnes collected from the immersion area. This included approximately 57.1 tonnes of wooden pallets and 704 idols.
Srinivasa Puram in Pattinapakkam recorded the highest number of idols collected. Sanitation teams recovered 4,879 idols from the area, making it one of the busiest immersion locations in the city.
Many of the idols were found broken after being immersed in the sea. Several pieces were washed back onto the shore, adding to the amount of waste that sanitation workers had to remove.
Although authorities have encouraged the use of environmentally friendly idols, concerns remain over the continued use of Plaster of Paris (PoP). Unlike natural clay, PoP does not dissolve quickly in water and can remain in the marine environment for a considerable period.
Environmental experts have also raised concerns about the materials and paints used in some idols. They say certain chemicals and other substances can enter the water and potentially affect marine organisms when large quantities of idols are immersed in the sea.
Marine biologist T.D. Babu suggested that people consider traditional clay idols as a more environmentally friendly alternative. Clay idols can break down more naturally after immersion and can reduce the amount of long-lasting material left in water.
Babu also called for stronger regulations on idol production and immersion practices. He said better planning could help reduce pollution while also preventing traffic problems and difficulties for sanitation workers during large-scale immersion events.
The large amount of waste has placed additional pressure on Chennai’s sanitation teams. Workers who normally handle routine civic duties have had to spend additional time collecting idols, wooden structures, flowers and other debris from the beaches.
The situation has once again highlighted the need to balance religious celebrations with environmental protection. With thousands of idols being immersed each year, the use of eco-friendly materials and better waste-management arrangements could help reduce the impact on Chennai’s beaches and marine environment.