Chennai, Sept 13
Chennai Police have strengthened security across the city ahead of Vinayaka Chaturthi by deploying 2,000 additional personnel and establishing 14 checkpoints at key locations.
The festival will be celebrated on September 14, with Hindu organisations, welfare groups, residents’ associations and local communities preparing to install Vinayaka idols in public places. Large gatherings are also expected during the subsequent processions and idol immersions.
Police have identified idol installation sites, procession routes and designated immersion points as part of a comprehensive security plan. Personnel stationed at the new checkpoints will inspect vehicles and monitor the movement of idols and festival-related materials.
Officers will verify whether organisers have installed idols only at authorised locations and complied with the prescribed conditions. These include restrictions relating to the size and placement of idols, public safety, traffic movement and approved procession routes.
Police will also ensure that idols are taken for immersion only to locations designated by the administration. Movement along procession routes will be regulated to prevent traffic congestion and minimise inconvenience to residents and motorists.
The additional personnel will be stationed at crowded markets, places of worship, important road junctions, idol installation venues and immersion points. Special teams have been assigned to manage traffic and maintain public order during processions.
Patrolling and vehicle inspections have been intensified in sensitive and densely populated areas. Officers have been directed to remain alert and respond swiftly to any incident that could disrupt the celebrations.
Temporary traffic restrictions and diversions are likely to be introduced during processions wherever necessary. Motorists have been advised to follow police instructions and use alternative routes when diversions are in force.
Festival organisers have been asked to coordinate closely with local police stations and strictly observe the conditions under which permissions were granted.
Authorities said the enhanced security arrangements were intended to prevent untoward incidents and ensure that the celebrations, processions and idol immersions are conducted peacefully and safely.
