Tight Security for Ganesha Idol Immersion in Anantapur
Authorities have issued strict guidelines to ensure smooth conduct of the festivities.
Anantapur: Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure that the massive Ganesha idol immersion processions in Anantapur city are carried out peacefully, collector Dr B. Vinod Kumar said on Friday. He appealed to the public, festival committees, and particularly the youth to extend full cooperation so that the immersions take place in a joyful and harmonious atmosphere.
Superintendent of police P. Jagadish said strict bandobast had been planned across the city, including at all immersion points. Apart from police personnel, advanced CCTV cameras and drone surveillance will be deployed. Revenue, municipal and fire service staff, along with trained swimmers, will be stationed at the immersion points for additional safety.
Three main procession routes have been designated. The first will begin from Tadipatri Bus Stand, pass through Basavannakatta, Suryanagar Circle and Sapthagiri Circle, also covering idols from JNTU, Collectorate, Housing Board, Vidyut Nagar, Naik Nagar, Adarsh Nagar, Ashok Nagar and Sai Nagar. The second route will cover Ramachandra Nagar, Saifulla Flyover, Srikantam Circle, NTR Circle, Tower Clock, PTC Flyover and Nadimi Vanka. The third route will cover Rudrampeta, Ramnagar, Lakshminagar, Srinagar Colony, Ramnagar Flyover, Government Hospital Circle, Telugu Talli Circle, Ambedkar Circle and Sapthagiri Circle.
The administration has earmarked Pampanuru HNSS Canal in Atmakur mandal for immersing idols above four feet, while idols below four feet are to be immersed at Rachanapalli Check Dam and the old flyover bridge in Anantapur Rural mandal.
Authorities have issued strict guidelines to ensure smooth conduct of the festivities. High-volume sound systems have been prohibited and all sound must remain within permitted limits. Devotees have been asked to follow traffic rules, avoid obstructing roads, and strictly adhere to police instructions. The administration has warned against participating in the processions under the influence of alcohol and stressed the need to ensure the safety of children, women and the elderly.
Officials also cautioned against hurting religious sentiments or disturbing communal harmony, particularly near places of worship. Strong action will be taken against those spreading false information or rumours on social media, the administration said.
