Hyderabad Police review Ganesh festival safety, urge idol makers to follow rules

Hyderabad Police have begun a review of safety measures ahead of the Ganesh festival, a major religious event in the city. Officials met with representatives from various mandals and idol makers on Wednesday. The focus was on ensuring that all processions and public gatherings comply with existing regulations.

The police have urged artisans and organisers to strictly adhere to guidelines. These cover the height of idols, the use of eco-friendly materials, and permissible noise levels. Authorities stressed that violations could lead to legal action.

Focus on fire safety and crowd control

A key concern raised during the review was fire safety. With large crowds expected at pandals and along procession routes, the police have asked organisers to ensure that electrical wiring is secure. Fire extinguishers must be placed at strategic points.

Crowd management is another priority. The police have advised mandals to create designated entry and exit points. They have also recommended deploying volunteers to help manage the flow of devotees, especially during peak hours.

Traffic diversions are likely to be put in place on key roads. The police have not yet confirmed the exact dates for these restrictions. An official announcement is expected closer to the festival.

Idol makers urged to use eco-friendly materials

The police have specifically asked idol makers to use non-toxic paints and materials that dissolve easily in water. This follows a long-standing directive from the National Green Tribunal to reduce pollution in water bodies after immersion.

Artisans have been warned against using plaster of Paris and chemical dyes. Those found violating the norms could face penalties. The police have said they will conduct surprise inspections at workshops and pandals in the coming weeks.

The height of idols has also been a point of discussion. Many mandals prefer large idols, but the police have reminded them that a maximum height limit applies. Oversized idols can cause logistical problems during processions and immersion.

Noise levels and timings under scanner

Noise pollution remains a persistent issue during the festival. The police have advised organisers to keep the volume of music and loudspeakers within permissible decibel levels. Late-night processions will require special permission.

Officials have also urged mandals to wind up celebrations by the designated time. Past festivals have seen complaints from residents about noise continuing into the early hours. The police have promised to deploy extra patrols to monitor compliance.

Community participation is being encouraged to make the festival safer. The police have asked local residents to report any violations or suspicious activity. Helpline numbers will be shared closer to the festival dates.

Meetings between police and mandal representatives will continue in the coming weeks. The goal is to address any remaining concerns before the first idols are installed.

What to watch: The police are expected to issue a detailed traffic advisory and list of permitted immersion points within the next fortnight. Organisers who fail to comply with the guidelines may face denial of permission for their events.