Chennai, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : The Tamil Nadu police have approved the installation of 36,000 Ganesh idols across public places in the state for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. This decision follows requests from the public and various Hindu organizations to set up idols for worship and later procession to designated water bodies for immersion.
The approvals were granted after organizers complied with conditions set by the Madras High Court, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, the Fire and Rescue Services, local authorities, and the police. In Chennai alone, the city police have permitted the establishment of 1,562 idols in approved locations. Stringent security measures are being implemented to ensure that the celebrations, processions, and immersion events proceed peacefully.
During the festival, 16,500 police personnel and 500 home guards will be deployed within Chennai’s jurisdiction. Police teams will monitor idol installation sites, procession routes, crowded areas, and immersion sites. Organizers are required to install CCTV cameras at public worship locations to enhance security and manage crowds effectively. They must also deploy volunteers to assist police in maintaining order.
The police have instructed organizers to strictly adhere to regulations regarding the size of the idols and the materials used in their construction. Compliance with fire safety, electrical safety, environmental protection, and traffic management requirements is mandatory.
The idols will be taken in procession on September 19 and 20, with immersion occurring in approved water bodies. Processions are only permitted on routes pre-approved by the police. Organizers have been advised to complete the immersion within the designated time and cooperate with officials stationed along the routes.
During the processions, vehicles without permits, provocative slogans, flammable materials, and loud sound systems will not be allowed. The police will also monitor social media platforms to prevent the spread of incendiary or misleading content that could disrupt communal harmony.
Authorities have warned that idols should not be set up in unauthorized locations or without the necessary permits. Any violations of these restrictions or attempts to disturb public peace will result in legal action. The police have called on both organizers and devotees to cooperate with officials and celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in a peaceful, safe, and environmentally responsible manner.
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