Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 in Chennai: Police Announce 13 Restrictions for Idol Installation and Immersion

Chennai police have announced 13 restrictions and guidelines for installing and immersing Vinayagar idols in the city. Authorities have urged organisers to follow all safety regulations and avoid placing idols near other places of worship, hospitals and educational institutions.

Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated across the country on September 14, 2026. Ahead of the festival, Chennai Metropolitan Police Commissioner Amalraj chaired a consultation meeting at the Vepery Police Commissionerate to discuss the installation, worship and peaceful immersion of Vinayagar idols across Chennai.

The meeting was attended by senior police officials, Greater Chennai Corporation officials and representatives of around 29 Hindu organisations, with nearly 200 representatives participating in the discussions.

13 Ganesh Chaturthi Restrictions in Chennai

The Chennai police have issued the following important guidelines for organisers:

Obtain necessary permissions: Organisers must obtain permission from the landowner and the concerned local body, Highways Department or other relevant government department before installing a Vinayagar idol.

Fire and electricity clearance: Organisers must obtain No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Fire and Rescue Services Department and the electricity authorities.

Police permission is mandatory: Organisers must submit the prescribed form to the jurisdictional police station, agree to follow all conditions and restrictions, and obtain permission before installing the idol.

Use eco-friendly materials: Vinayagar idols must not be made using materials that could harm the environment.

Idol height limit: The height of the installed idol must not exceed 10 feet, measured from the base.

Avoid sensitive locations: Idols should not be installed near other places of worship, hospitals or educational institutions.

No provocative slogans: Organisers must not raise slogans or make announcements that could promote communal hatred or hurt the religious sentiments of people from other communities.

Round-the-clock security: Two volunteers must be appointed on a rotational basis to ensure the safety of the idol and provide security 24 hours a day.

No political or religious promotional banners: Political party-related or religious leader promotional banners and advertisement boards should not be displayed at the event venue.

Follow fire safety rules: All fire safety regulations must be strictly followed. Electrical equipment and temporary structures such as pandals must be regularly inspected to prevent accidents.

Follow approved immersion routes: Vinayayagar idols must be transported only on permitted days, through approved routes and in authorised four-wheeler vehicles before being peacefully immersed at designated locations.

No fireworks: Firecrackers will not be permitted at idol installation locations, procession routes or immersion points.

CCTV surveillance: CCTV cameras must be installed at locations where Vinayagar idols are installed to ensure security and monitor activities.

Police Urge Organisers to Follow Rules

During the consultation meeting, Chennai Police Commissioner Amalraj instructed organisers to strictly follow the Madras High Court and Tamil Nadu government orders related to Vinayagar Chaturthi celebrations.

Police have also urged organisers to coordinate with the Chennai Metropolitan Police and conduct idol processions peacefully and safely on the days permitted by the authorities.

The idols should be transported without causing inconvenience to the general public and immersed only at designated water bodies or immersion points approved by the authorities.

Ganesh Chaturthi Safety Guidelines in Chennai

The Chennai Police`s latest guidelines are aimed at ensuring peaceful Vinayagar Chaturthi celebrations, maintaining public safety, preventing accidents and reducing inconvenience to residents.

Organisers and devotees are advised to obtain the required permissions in advance and strictly follow the prescribed conditions for Vinayagar idol installation, procession and immersion in Chennai.