Chennai: Over 2,600 Vinayagar Idols Taken for Immersion; 18,500 Personnel Deployed

More than 2,600 Vinayagar idols installed across Chennai are being taken for immersion at four designated locations on Sunday, with elaborate security and traffic arrangements in place.

A total of 2,662 idols were installed in public places on September 14 in Chennai, Tambaram and Avadi police limits. This includes 1,562 idols in Chennai City, 400 in Tambaram and 700 in Avadi.

After six days of worship, the idols are being transported to the designated immersion points, accompanied by traditional music and drums. Large idols are being immersed with the help of cranes, conveyor belts, trained swimmers and volunteers.

18,500 Personnel Deployed

Following the directions of Police Commissioner Amalraj, around 18,500 personnel, including 16,500 police personnel and 2,000 Home Guard volunteers, have been deployed along the permitted procession routes.

Traffic diversions have also been introduced on major roads to ensure smooth movement and prevent inconvenience to the public. The movement of heavy vehicles into Chennai has been restricted during the processions.

Four Immersion Points

The designated immersion locations are:

• Pattinapakkam Srinivasapuram

• Thiruvanmiyur Palkalai Nagar

• Pudhu Vannarpettai Fishing Harbour

• Thiruvottiyur Popular Weighbridge

Barricades have been installed at the immersion points to prevent people from entering the sea. Police are also using drone surveillance as part of the security arrangements.

Meanwhile, devotees and Hindu organisations are transporting the idols along the permitted routes with music and drums. Food, fruit juice, buttermilk and other refreshments are being distributed to participants along several procession routes.

Police Commissioner Amalraj also inspected the Neelankarai University Nagar and Pattinapakkam immersion points to review security and other arrangements.