Delhi to set up 250 Collection centres for damaged idols to protect faith and environment

New Delhi: In a major initiative aimed at respecting religious sentiments while protecting the environment, Delhi will establish 250 collection kiosks for damaged idols and pooja-related materials across the city. The initiative, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, brings together the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Plastindia Foundation to ensure the respectful collection and proper management of religious items.

In the first phase, 250 idol collection kiosks will be installed across various MCD wards, of which 60 have already been set up.

Under the agreement signed at the Chief Minister’s Office, residents will be able to deposit damaged idols and other pooja materials at designated collection centres after religious ceremonies. The collected items will then be segregated for appropriate disposal and recycling.

The initiative aims to prevent pollution at public places and water bodies without hurting religious sentiments.

CM appeals to residents to protect the environment

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said Indian culture teaches respect for nature and all living beings, making environmental protection an important responsibility alongside religious faith.

She urged Delhi residents to deposit damaged idols and pooja materials at designated collection centres instead of discarding them in public spaces or water bodies.

According to the Chief Minister, even small efforts by individual citizens can make a significant contribution towards making the capital cleaner and greener.

MCD to manage daily operations and maintenance

Under the agreement, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the relevant authorities will be responsible for the daily operation, cleaning and maintenance of the kiosks after their handover. Their responsibilities will also include deploying staff and transporting collected materials to authorised facilities.

Plastindia Foundation chairman Alok Tiberwala said the foundation had developed, supplied and installed the kiosks free of cost.

Mayor calls for public participation

Delhi Mayor Pravesh Wahi described the initiative as an important step towards the proper management of religious materials and appealed to residents to cooperate with the campaign.

The programme was attended by MCD Standing Committee chairperson Satya Sharma, Leader of the House Jaibhagwan Yadav, Municipal Commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar and officials from the concerned departments.

The initiative is expected to promote responsible disposal practices while helping protect Delhi’s public spaces and water bodies from pollution.