Tamil Nadu Tells Green Court Idol Immersion in Water Bodies to End by 2027

The Tamil Nadu government has told the National Green Tribunal that Ganesh idol immersion will not be allowed at two Chennai beaches from next year, and that it intends to halt the practice in natural water bodies across the state from 2027.

The assurance was given during the hearing of a petition that sought directions to prevent idol immersion in water bodies, citing the environmental harm the practice causes. The petitioner contended that plaster of Paris, paints, chemicals and other materials used in the idols can degrade water quality and threaten aquatic life. The plea asked for a ban on immersion at all beaches from next year, and suggested that temporary artificial ponds be created so devotees can carry out the ritual without damaging natural water bodies.

The state's commitment to end immersion in natural water bodies from 2027 is to be carried out in line with directions and rules laid down by the Supreme Court, the Madras High Court and the tribunal itself. The precise scope of the statewide measure is expected to become clear in an affidavit the government has been directed to file.

Shifting idols away from the two Chennai beaches presents practical difficulties. A Chennai Corporation report placed before the tribunal said consultations with the police and other departments had identified law-and-order, traffic and logistical problems in moving large numbers of idols to alternative immersion points. The Corporation has proposed relocating about 450 idols from Palavakkam beach to Kovalam, to the south of the city, and 250 idols from Pattinapakkam to Ennore, in the north.

The tribunal had earlier asked the government to look into moving idols from Foreshore Estate and Neelankarai to other designated immersion sites, given the environmental sensitivity of those coastal stretches. It also sought answers on steps taken to collect immersion charges based on idol size.

After directing the state to file an affidavit setting out its proposed measures, the tribunal adjourned the matter. The case is expected to shape how Tamil Nadu reconciles religious practice with environmental protection, especially the safeguarding of natural water bodies from pollution linked to idol immersion.