No immersion in natural water bodies: CP

Surat: Amid the excitement and preparations for the Ganesha festival, which begins on Saturday, the Surat police commissioner has issued a notification that has dampened the spirit of many residents and organizers. The notification has put in place a set of strict guidelines for the conduct of the festival. The notification prohibits the immersion of idols in natural water sources such as rivers, ponds, and canals. This ban applies to all types of idols, including those made of clay, PoP, and fibre. The police chief said that this decision was made to protect the environment from pollution caused by the toxic materials used in making the idols.The notification, which will be in effect from Sep 7 to Sep 20, also strictly prohibits the pandal organizers from playing obscene songs during the festival. The notification also bans speeches that might hurt religious sentiments. The police commissioner emphasized the importance of respecting cultural and religious diversity in the city. Additionally, people are not permitted to throw colours or water on pedestrians and on vehicles. Decorations should not offend anyone's religious sentiments, and there should be no obstructions that disrupt the general traffic flow in the city, says the notification. For immersion, the organizers are strictly prohibited from using routes other than the ones authorized by the police for the purpose. The police have also banned the use of large trucks and trailers for immersion.