Hyderabad: Regulations for Ganesh Festival
To ensure peace and order during the upcoming Ganesh festival, the Hyderabad city police have introduced specific guidelines. These rules will be in effect from September 7 to September 17.
The police have announced that anyone planning to install Ganesh idols must first get permission from the police. This includes setting up pandals (temporary structures) and organizing immersion processions. To get this permission, people need to submit certain documents, such as a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner where the idol will be installed and proof of a verified electrical connection from TGSPDCL. All these documents must be uploaded to the official police website by September 6. The necessary forms for the Ganesh idol installation and processions can be found at www.hyderabadpolice.gov.in.
The installation of idols will only be allowed in places that do not block traffic or cause any disturbance to public peace. The location must also be free from any disputes. If these conditions are not met, permission will not be granted. Additionally, only authorized electricity connections are permitted at the pandals. Organizers must get a certificate from TGSPDCL confirming that the electricity connection is authorized and include this certificate with their application.
The use of loudspeakers is also strictly controlled. Only two box-type speakers are allowed per pandal. Both the organizers and the equipment suppliers need to get police clearance for using loudspeakers.
Organizers must keep noise levels within the allowed limits. According to the Supreme Court’s guidelines, no loudspeakers or public address systems can be used between 10 pm and 6 am.
Furthermore, the organizers are responsible for managing crowds and ensuring safety at the Ganesh mandaps. They must appoint volunteers to manage queues and oversee worship activities like lighting lamps and performing Aarthi. These volunteers should wear identity badges.
The police emphasized the importance of submitting all required forms, NOCs, and certificates on time through the police website. Final preparations will be reviewed in meetings between organizers, station house officers, and divisional assistant commissioners before the festival begins.
It’s important to note that these regulations do not apply to private homes where the Ganesh idols are not accessible to the public.
If organizers have any difficulties with the Intimation Form or other required documents, they are encouraged to visit their local police station for help or contact the Hyderabad City Police helpline at 8712665785.
