Pune: As the Ganesh festival approaches, the Pune Police have released detailed guidelines for Ganesh mandals in the city, focusing on processions, traffic management, and safety measures.

The guidelines include a restriction on the number of drums (dhol) and cymbals (tasha), limiting them to 50 and 10 per group, respectively. Additionally, the police have requested that parking arrangements for devotees be made in nearby grounds and schools.

Ganesh mandals are required to adhere to the same drum and cymbal limits as last year, with a maximum of three such groups allowed per mandal. The police have emphasized the importance of coordinating these details in advance.

The police have also laid out a series of conditions for new mandals seeking permissions. These include registration with the Charity Commissioner, height and width restrictions on displays, and mandatory safety certifications.

Events must conclude by 10 PM, and the use of bright beam lights and excessive noise is strictly prohibited. CCTV cameras must be installed, and special care must be taken to ensure the safety of women and respect for religious sentiments.

Major Ganesh mandals have expressed their cooperation with the police and have sought support in managing parking for the festival.

Terms and conditions for obtaining permissions for new mandals:

• Ganesh mandals that obtained permissions in 2022 are valid until 2026 (for five years).

• New Ganesh mandals must be registered with the Charity Commissioner and have a valid certificate.

• The height of displays in the procession must not exceed 14 feet, and the width must not exceed 10 feet.

• Events are allowed to continue only until 10 PM.

• A no-objection certificate from the fire department is required for constructing arches, stages, and pandals.

• Permissions related to traffic, electrical connections, and other safety measures are to be managed through a one-window scheme.

• The size of the pandal must match the dimensions specified in the permit.

• CCTV installation is mandatory within the Ganesh mandal premises.

• Precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of women.

• Care must be taken to avoid hurting religious sentiments.

• Bright beam lights are not allowed.

• Only two speakers are allowed, and noise limits must be observed.