Commissioner of Police T. Rajendran has warned of stern action against any person collecting money forcibly from residents or shopkeepers on the pretext of Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations.
Talking to reporters here on Thursday he said five places have been notified for immersion of idols as part of the celebrations. Processions would be permitted along 16 routes in the city.
Idol immersion shall take place in the sea at Pattinapakkam (Foresore Estate), Kasimedu (Fishing Harbour), Neelankarai (Palkalai Nagar) and two places at Tiruvottriyur. The immersion of idols would take place on August 29 and 30.
He said instructions were given to organisers of processions to ensure that crackers were not burst along the route. Idols should be made of clay or non-toxic substances. They have been told to make sure that the processionists do not spray water or colours on public.
At the immersion points, adequate safety arrangements will be in place. Besides a number of boats and trained swimmers, police has arranged for medical teams, fire service personnel, ambulances and giant cranes.
Mr. Rajendran said about 8,000 police personnel would be deployed in accordance with the security scheme. Idols should not be more than 11 feet tall, he added. Joint Commissioner of Police (Central) V.A. Ravikumar was also present.
