Hyderabad police sets precautions for Ganesh Chaturthi: No Alcohol, gambling, loud music
Hyderabad: In preparation for Ganesh Chaturthi on September 7, 2024, the Hyderabad City Police have issued a set of precautionary guidelines for the installation and maintenance of Ganesh Mandaps across the city. The announcement was made via the official Hyderabad City Police handle on ‘X,’ formerly known as Twitter.
The police said that no permanent structures should be constructed for the installation of Ganesh idols. Idols must not be placed on public roads, pavements, or other similar locations. Temporary Mandaps should be constructed with high-quality materials to withstand heavy crowds, wind, and rain, with roofs covered by tarpaulins. Additionally, precautions must be taken to prevent animals from entering the Mandap.
For electrical fittings, the use of high-quality wire is mandatory, and conditions set by the TGSPDCL for electricity connections must be adhered to. Loud music and the use of loudspeakers will be prohibited after 10 p.m. to avoid disturbing neighbours, students, and individuals who are unwell. The playing of loud music is strictly regulated to minimise disturbances.
The police also forbade the organisation of lucky dips, lotteries, or coercive fund collections in the name of Ganesh Mandaps. Political or provocative speeches, slogans, or gestures that could offend any section of the public are strictly prohibited. Mandaps must not be used for consuming alcohol, gambling, or engaging in any unlawful or anti-social activities. Care must be taken to ensure that no inflammable materials or fireworks are present, and proper precautions should be observed when using oil lamps and aarti within the pandal.
To ensure safety and security, at least three volunteers must be present at all times at the Mandap. Their names and contact details should be recorded in a designated book at the Mandap, and any significant incidents must be reported to the police promptly.
Volunteers are also required to manage queues of devotees visiting the Mandap. Decorations, including serial lighting, are not allowed outside the Mandap. Idols made of Plaster of Paris (POP) are prohibited from being immersed in Hussainsagar Lake or any other natural water bodies in the city, as per the Honorable High Court’s directives in W.P. Nos 19639 & 28931 of 2022 dated 21.07.2022. POP idols must be immersed in designated baby ponds constructed by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) or in separate ponds that do not pollute main water bodies. Immersion from the Tank Bund side of Hussainsagar Lake is not allowed.
Organisers are also required to install C.C. Surveillance cameras with recording facilities and power backup at all Ganesh Mandaps and gathering places, with the capability to monitor these cameras from a central location.
These precautionary measures are aimed at ensuring a safe and enjoyable Ganesh Chaturthi celebration for all the citizens in Hyderabad.
Precautionary Measures to be followed at Ganesh Mandaps.
గణేష్ మండపం వద్ద పాటించవలిసిన ముందు జాగ్రత్తలు.#Dial100 in any Emergency.#GaneshChaturthi #GaneshNavaratri pic.twitter.com/qQxBcIUa0w— Hyderabad City Police (@hydcitypolice) September 5, 2024
