SHILLONG: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) shot off a petition to the Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on the much-debated topic of pollution of River Wah Umkhrah and Umshyrpi.
According to KHANM youth wing president Thomas Passsah, idols which are constructed by plaster of Paris, clay, cloths, small iron rods, bamboo and decorated with different paints such as varnish, water colours etc. can lead to significant alteration in the water quality after immersion
The party suggested the Meghalaya State Pollution Board could be tasked to carry out two different tests on these rivers, one before the immersion and another after the immersion to find out the level of pollution caused by the practice of immersion of idols.
“The floating materials released through idol in the river after decomposition results in eutrophication, increase in acidity and heavy metal concentration. Heavy metal pollution caused by idol immersion further damage the ecosystem as it kills fishes, blocks the natural flow of water, causing stagnation,” the letter stated.
In this connection, KHNAM said guidelines formulated by the Central Pollution Control Board needed be enforced at the earliest and suggested that idols should be made from natural materials such as traditional clay.
Passah asserted water soluble and non-toxic natural dyes should be used for painting the idols and use of toxic and non-biodegradable chemical dye for painting should be strictly prohibited.
He added worship material like flowers, cloths, decorating material (made of paper and plastic) etc. should be removed before immersion of idols.
The party said the idol immersion points should be cordoned and barricaded and synthetic liner may be placed in the bottom, well in advance.
“The said liner shall be removed on completion of immersion ceremony so that remains of idols would be brought to the bank. Bamboo and wooded logs, if any would be reused. Clay, etc. may be taken to sanitary land fill for disposal,” Passah suggested.
According to the youth wing leader, the government needs to put its best foot in towards the issue for the survival of these rivers.