(Image source from: x.com/hydcitypolice)

The Hyderabad traffic police have issued precautionary guidelines for setting up Ganesh mandaps during the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival. The guidelines prohibit the construction of permanent structures and the installation of idols on public roads or pavements. The temporary mandaps should be made using high-quality materials to prevent collapse due to large crowds, wind, or heavy rain, and the roof should be covered with tarpaulin. Electrical wiring must be of good quality, and the electricity connections should comply with the conditions set by the power distribution company. The use of loudspeakers and loud music is not allowed, especially after 10 pm, to avoid disturbance to the nearby residents, students, and unwell individuals.

No speaking, chanting, or displaying of any content is allowed at the Ganesh Mandaps that could offend the public. The Mandap must not be used for drinking alcohol, gambling, or any other illegal or antisocial activities. Proper precautions must be taken to ensure that no flammable materials or fireworks are present at the Ganesh Mandap. Care should be exercised with lamps and rituals using oil and fire within the pandal. To protect the Ganesh Mandap, idol, and other items, a minimum of 3 volunteers must be available around the clock, and their names and contact information must be recorded. The necessary number of volunteers must be provided to manage the queues of devotees visiting the Ganesh Mandap. No outside lighting or decorations are permitted beyond the Ganesh Mandap. Plaster of Paris (POP) idols are not allowed to be immersed in Hussainsagar Lake or any other natural water bodies in the city, as per the High Court's directions.

Precautionary Measures to be followed at Ganesh Mandaps.
గణేష్ మండపం వద్ద పాటించవలిసిన ముందు జాగ్రత్తలు.#Dial100 in any Emergency.#GaneshChaturthi #GaneshNavaratri pic.twitter.com/qQxBcIUa0w

— Hyderabad City Police (@hydcitypolice) September 5, 2024

Ganesh idols made of POP (plaster of Paris) should be immersed in small ponds already built by the GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) or in separate designated areas/ponds that do not cause water pollution in the main water body. Immersion of POP Ganesh idols is not allowed from the Tank Bund side of the Hussainsagar lake. The organizers will set up closed-circuit surveillance cameras with recording and backup power capabilities at all Ganesh Mandaps and gathering areas. These cameras will have the ability to be monitored from a convenient central location.