Regulate number of Vinayagar idols, residents urge cops

WITH Vinayaka Chathurthi set to begin on August 27, residents across Tiruchy city have urged the police to strictly regulate idol installations, processions, and noise levels during the festival, citing concerns over safety, law and order, and traffic congestion.

- P THIRUSELVAM @Tiruchy

Several people expressed concern that unauthorised pandals, overnight celebrations, and the use of high-decibel loudspeakers in the pandals have become rampant in residential areas. Alcohol consumption during processions has also been flagged as a major concern. "Last year, we could not sleep for three nights as speakers blared almost non-stop during the festival. Over seven pandals were set up within a 200-metre stretch," said a 34-year-old woman from Poosari street.