Though environmentalists and pollution control experts have been actively campaigning for use of lead-free paints on idols during the Pujas, the absence of a common guideline for idol immersion has diluted it.

Like every year, this year too the immersion of Durga idols coated with lead paint will increase the pollution level of Hooghly.

Keeping in mind, the toxicity of lead (see box), an eight-member committee was formed last year that comprised experts from Centre and the state. Their main mandate was to suggest guidelines for idol immersion.

The committee has submitted a report to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPBC), which is in the process of creating a common guideline for idol immersion.

“It was identified that lead used in idols pollutes the river. Lead in colours also affects aquaculture. Following a PIL, the CPCB had formed the committee to suggest a guideline for immersion. We have sent them our report and a draft of the guideline is being prepared,” said a senior scientist of WBPCB.

Despite the campaign started by the WBPCB to use lead-free paint on idols through posters and leaflets, no action could be taken against the idol makers in the absence of a clear policy on the issue.

The artisans at Kumartuli, despite having received the circular from WBPCB, are having a tough time to comply with it. One of the reasons is the high cost of lead-free and organic paints.

“We have nothing against lead-free paints as long as they are available in proper shades. With lead-free paints costing Rs 5,000 to Rs 4,000 and normal lead paints costing only Rs 1,000, who would want to spend more?” said Mintu Pal of Kumartuli Mritshilpa Sanskriti Samity. What makes the lead-free paints costly is the use of Titanium dioxide.

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