Kolhapur : Police have allowed Ganesh mandals to take out idol arrival and immersion processions on days other than the official arrival and immersion dates, provided they do not use sound systems or laser lights.
The assurance came after representatives of the Ganeshotsav Mahasamiti met superintendent of police Neelotpal and deputy SP Priya Patil on Wednesday seeking relaxation of earlier restrictions that permitted processions with sound systems only on Sept 14 and 25. Usage of traditional musical instruments during the festival period won’t be prohibited.
SP Neelotpal said, “Ganesh mandals from the city that carry out idol arrival or immersion on other days, as per their tradition, will receive permission, but only on the condition that they do not use sound systems and laser lights. Mahasamiti president Gajanan Yadav said, “Police have appealed to us to take out arrival processions on any day after taking permission, but with traditional musical instruments. Mahasamiti member Sushil Bandhigare said, “Police department has clarified that they are not opposing Ganesh arrival processions, but the use of sound systems, as they cause prolonged traffic congestion.
Ganesh mandals are appealed to follow the guidelines set by the Supreme Court for noise pollution. ” Police warned that processions using high-decibel sound systems on other days would invite action. We welcome the decision and will ensure that processions on other days use traditional musical instruments.”