Hubballi: The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has constituted special task force teams in each ward, headed by zonal assistant commissioners, to promote eco-friendly Ganesha idols and curb the manufacture, sale and installation of banned plaster of Paris (PoP) idols across the twin cities.The task forces have been directed to strictly enforce regulations promoting traditional clay Ganesha idols and prohibit PoP idols. Officials said the enforcement drive aims to accelerate the shift towards eco-friendly idols during the festival season.Each ward will have a dedicated task force led by the concerned zonal assistant commissioner. The teams will monitor areas under their jurisdiction, identify violations related to the manufacture, sale or installation of PoP Ganesha idols, and ensure that traditional clay idols are promoted.HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali said the task forces had been formed to strengthen implementation by assigning responsibility at the zonal and ward levels. By placing zonal assistant commissioners in charge, the corporation aims to ensure closer supervision and prompt action wherever prohibited PoP idols are found.The task forces are expected to begin enforcement immediately and intensify action against PoP idols in the coming days. The teams comprise environmental engineers, junior engineers, bill collectors and other officials.Satish Murgod, a traditional Ganesha idol maker, said PoP idols had already arrived in several areas and urged authorities to conduct strict inspections.“Traders dealing in PoP idols have mushroomed in large numbers. The special task force should act firmly and effectively enforce the ban on PoP Ganesha idols,” he said.He added that more than 200 families are engaged in making traditional clay Ganesha idols. However, the widespread availability of PoP idols has adversely affected their livelihood, creating difficulties for traditional idol makers.
