Vinayagar Chathurthi security: 20,000 police on guard

CHENNAI: City police on Friday reviewed security arrangements for Vinayagar Chathurthi celebrations in the city, festivities for which begin from Wednesday.

Police sources said that permission has been given to install 3000 idols at various places in the limits of Chennai, Avadi and Tambaram city Commissionerate.

Groups which wish to install idols are required to obtain permission through the single-window system. As part of security arrangements, about 20,000 police personnel and home guards would be deployed across the city and would be supervised by senior police officers.

One policeman will be on guard near each idol, said police. Police said that they will also be working with other departments such as electricity board, fire and safety and Chennai Corporation for the smooth conduct of the fest.

Police have also identified sensitive areas and additional police would be deployed in those places.

Police said that immersion of idols will be allowed only at designated places - Ramakrishnan Nagar, Ennore, two places in Tiruvottiyur, Kasimedu fishing harbour, Srinivasapuram in Foreshore Estate and Neelankarai.