As the festive season approaches with Ganesh Chaturthi, Vishwakarma Puja, and Durga Puja, Kumartuli, known for its idol-making, is experiencing significant disruptions. Artisans are grappling with a shortage of riverine soil, essential for crafting idols, due to stricter regulations on its procurement and transport. Babu Pal, secretary of the Kumartuli Mritsilpa Sanskrity Samity, noted that these regulations were implemented after concerns arose about soil being diverted from its intended use. The new rules require detailed documentation, which has slowed down the supply chain. While overseas orders for fibre-glass idols remain unaffected, local artisans face rising costs for materials like jute and bamboo, prompting a price increase of 20-25% for idols. The uncertainty surrounding clay extraction from Diamond Harbour has left artisans and suppliers in a state of limbo, with many hesitant to continue operations. Artisans are hopeful for a swift administrative resolution to resume normal production in time for the upcoming festivals.