Residents of Mira Bhayandar were shocked on Tuesday morning as hundreds of dead fish were discovered floating in Mandli Talao, a lake in Bhayandar (West). The lake, which is a regular site for idol immersion during festivals, has been severely impacted by the immersion of Plaster-of-Paris (PoP) idols. Environmental experts and local authorities cite the decline in oxygen levels as the primary cause of this marine life tragedy.

Impact of PoP Idols and Toxic Paints

The annual immersion of PoP idols, especially during Ganesh Utsav, has been linked to the death of marine life in the lake. PoP idols do not dissolve easily and remain in the water for long periods. Additionally, the toxic chemicals in the paints used on these idols form a layer on the water’s surface, restricting oxygen from entering the water, which is crucial for aquatic life.

A study revealed that after the immersion process, there is a sudden drop in oxygen levels, which has a devastating effect on fish and other marine creatures. This year, over 600 PoP idols were immersed in Mandli Talao, severely affecting the lake’s ecosystem.

Authorities Respond

Personnel from the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) arrived at the lake to remove the dead fish and clean the water. However, the full extent of the damage to the aquatic life and the water quality is yet to be assessed.

Environmentalists, such as Dhiraj Parab, have voiced concerns over the civic administration’s failure to enforce rules to prevent the immersion of non-biodegradable idols, despite judicial orders and advisories from pollution control boards.

Environmental Hazards and Public Health Concerns

Apart from the environmental damage, the rotting fish has caused a foul smell, posing a potential health risk for residents. Citizens are demanding stricter measures and action against officials who failed to regulate the immersion process.

This incident highlights the urgent need for more sustainable practices during festivals and better enforcement of environmental regulations to protect natural water bodies like Mandli Talao.