Karnataka government has ordered a ban on sale of soaps, detergents and shampoos within 500 metres of rivers and tanks. State environment and ecology minister Eshwar Khandre also issued orders to prevent devotees from leaving behind their old clothes in the waterbodies. Referring to the use-and-throw culture, the minister said the devotees damage the ecosystem of waterb bodies at holy places. A senior department official told TOI that due to these unchecked activities, water bodies at pilgrimage centres are rich in phosphates and other chemical compounds, resulting in increased frothing of water. The ban is expected to be in place for at least a year, according to the minister’s letter. For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or click here for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 1-800-273-8255 or visit http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.