Guidelines issued for Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations
The Salem district administration has released official guidelines for the upcoming Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations. Organizers must obtain permits, use eco-friendly materials for idols, and adhere to strict safety and traffic regulations during processions.
Why it matters
These regulations balance religious freedom with public safety, environmental protection, and urban traffic management in a major Indian district.
The Salem district administration has issued guidelines to be followed during the Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations on September 14. In a release, District Collector K. Elambahavath said organisers should obtain permission from the respective Assistant Commissioners of Police in the corporation limits and the respective Revenue Divisional Officers (RDOs) in rural areas to install the idols.
The idols should be made of clay, and they should be painted only with natural colours that do not pollute waterbodies. Idols made of Plaster of Paris and chemical paints should not be used. The height of the idols to be installed, including the pedestal and platform, should not exceed 10 feet. The roof and side walls of the structure where the idol is to be installed should not be made of flammable materials.
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