Ganesh Utsav 2026: The Durg Police have intensified preparations to ensure that Ganesh Utsav in Bhilai is conducted peacefully and in an organized manner. Acting on the instructions of DIG Vijay Agrawal, a meeting was held with office-bearers from over 50 large and medium-sized Ganesh pandal committees to issue guidelines regarding security and traffic arrangements. ASP Shobhraj Agrawal, CSP Durg Harshit Mehar, CSP Bhilai Nagar Nishant Pathak, and CSP Chhavni Prashant Singh Paikra attended the meeting.
Cameras at Entry/Exit; Two Members Present at Night
The police have mandated the installation of adequate CCTV cameras at pandal entry and exit points, the main idol site, and parking areas. The presence of at least two committee members is mandatory for security at the pandal during the night. Instructions have been issued to arrange for separate queues and entry/exit points for male and female devotees, as well as to deploy sufficient volunteers and security guards.
Ban on Loudspeakers After 10 PM
CSP Harshit Mehar stated that the use of loudspeakers is prohibited after 10 PM. Violations will result in the confiscation of equipment and legal action. Warnings have also been issued regarding action against the consumption of intoxicants and the forcible collection of donations at pandals and during immersion processions.
Only Religious Songs Permitted
Immersion processions must follow designated routes. Each procession is permitted a maximum of three vehicles: the Ganesh idol vehicle, the tableau vehicle, and a vehicle for the generator/DJ system. The maximum height for a tableau is set at 15 feet, and the presence of at least eight volunteers per tableau is mandatory. Carrying swords, spears, sticks, or other weapons during the immersion is prohibited. Only religious songs are allowed to be played during the processions.
No Blocking Roads for Parking or Collection
Organizers have been instructed not to obstruct roads or traffic routes for pandals or parking and to designate parking sites in advance. Action will be taken if unauthorized parking fees are collected. A technical certificate must be obtained from the concerned department before installing swings, amusement rides, and technical machinery. Instructions have been issued to conduct fire, safety, and electrical audits for the pandals (temporary structures) and to ensure the availability of firefighting equipment, sand, and water.
