Pune: Laser beam banned during Ganpati immersion procession
Pune: Unbridled use of laser beam lights during the Ganpati immersion procession caused injuries to eyes of participants last year. In this backdrop, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amitesh Kumar has banned its use during the immersion procession. He warned that action would be taken against violators.
A meeting of Manache Ganesh mandals (five leading mandals) was organised at the Police Commissionerate on Tuesday. Earlier, a meeting of all Ganesh mandals from the city was held at the Police Headquarters in Shivajinagar. CP Kumar interacted with the media after the meeting.
Last year, laser beam lights were used on a large scale, which adversely impacted eyesight of many people. Loudspeakers were also used on a huge scale. Complaints were lodged about this with the police.
Kumar said, “Laser lights have been banned during the immersion procession. Loudspeakers are also used on a large scale. The Supreme Court has already issued instructions about their use. They need to be followed. We will hold a meeting with suppliers of such equipment and with DJ technicians soon.”
Traffic management during Ganeshotsav
Large crowds gather in the city during the Ganesh Festival. Suggestions have been made about traffic issues, parkings by office-bearers of Ganesh mandals within the Faraskhana-Vishrambaug police stations. The police have started preparations to curb thefts, traffic problems and installation of CCTV cameras.”
Manache Mandals prefer Dhol-Tasha pathaks
The Manache Mandals (five leading Ganesh mandals) have preferred Dhol-Tasha pathaks during the immersion procession. They do not use loudspeakers. They hold a traditional procession, said their office-bearers.
One troupe per mandal
CP Kumar said the police will discuss the issue of number of Dhol-Tasha pathaks in a Ganesh mandal’s procession. They will also determine the number of players in such troupes. There will also be a time limit for playing Dhol-Tasha at a chowk. The police will also discuss the issue with office-bearers of the Dhol-Tasha Mahasangh in a separate meeting.
Ban on alcohol during the festival
Some mandal workers demanded a ban on liquor sale during the period of Ganeshotsav. CP Kumar said that they would follow up with the District Collector about closing liquor shops for 10 days.
