Chennai: Amid tight security, as many as 2,145 Vinayaga idols kept in various streets across the city were taken out in a procession by devotees and immersed in the sea peacefully on Sunday, police said. On Saturday, around 200 idols were immersed.
In certain areas where the idols were immersed, there were mild clashes between the police and the public who tried to jump over barricades and enter restricted seaside areas.
Around 15,000 police personnel were deployed and intensified security arrangements were made for the immersion at specific places on the Marina Beach and other areas including Srinivasapuram in Foreshore Estate, Palkalai Nagar in Neelankarai, fishing harbour in Kasimedu, Tiruvottiyur and Ennore.
Hindu Munnani, Hindu Makkal Katchi and other Hindu outfits took out idol processions.
Police had also roped in fishermen to immerse the idols and ensure there were no cases of drowning. Senior police officials visited the spot and watchtowers were set up to ensure the public were not getting too far into the water.
Coast Guard boats were also deployed for security. Surveillance cameras were set up at important places to watch the procession, police revealed. Later in the day, 30 members of the Hindu Makkal Katchi and 50 men from Hindu Munnani were arrested by the police for entering restricted areas in Triplicane and Ice House.
