Almost 12,000 police personnel have been deployed across the city to ensure smooth celebrations
A 17.5 foot tall Ganesha idol has been brought to Coimbatore for the Vinayaka Chathurthi festival (Photo: DC)
Chennai: Security has been beefed up in the city in view of Vinayaka Chathurthi to prevent any communal flare up or other untoward incidents. At least 12,000 police personnel have been deployed across the city to ensure smooth celebrations of the festival.
Top officials of the city police met leaders of 23 Hindu outfits to ensure peaceful procession of the Ganesha idols during the day of immersion. Police have given permission for immersion on September 6 and 7. “We made it very clear that inflammatory speech or slogans intended to hurt other religious sentiments won’t be taken lightly and have asked leaders to ensure that their cadres don't behave in an unruly manner,” a top police officer said. “A few more idol installation points are expected to come up beyond the already permitted 1,800 idol installation points in the city,” he added.
The organisers have been sternly told to stick to the routes permitted for the idol procession on the day of immersion. They have also been discouraged from using huge loud speakers and other public announcement (PA) systems as part of their celebrations.
City police have identified five points for immersion, Foreshore Estate, Neelankarai, Kasimedu, Ennore and Thiruvottiyur - and the organisers were told to adhere to it, according to another senior officer.
Police have also advised the organisers not to use sprinklers to spray chemically colored water during procession and have sought details of the Idol protection committee members, who will assist the police personnel in security arrangement.
“Hindu Munnani which contributes to the bulk of the idols to be immersed will be given extra protection considering the sensitive routes taken by them”, police said. Meanwhile, there has been a heavy flow of customers to Koyambedu wholesale market for the last two days looking for festival items, say traders.
Rice flakes, sugarcane, coconut and guava are the most sought after items on Vinakaya Chathurthi. Coconut prices has already seen a price rise of Rs 3 each but traders say it will return to normal on Saturday.
( Source : dc correspondent )
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