Archive · 16 Sep 2026
Tamil Nadu deploys one lakh police for Vinayaka idol immersions
Police in Tamil Nadu are preparing for the immersion of many Vinayaka idols.
More than 37,000 idols have been installed across the state.
About one lakh police officers will help keep people and the idols safe.
In Chennai, 1,562 idols are expected to be immersed on September 19 and 20.
The police have chosen routes and places where processions may go.
They will use boats, cranes, ambulances, fire engines and other safety equipment.
The National Green Tribunal has said idols cannot be immersed at Pattinapakkam and Neelankarai beaches.
Organisers who break the rules could face legal action.
About one lakh police personnel were deployed across Tamil Nadu to protect more than 37,000 Vinayaka idols.
In Chennai, 16,500 police personnel and 1,500 Home Guards will secure the immersion of 1,562 idols.
Immersions are scheduled for September 19 and 20 at police-approved locations and along permitted routes.
Chennai preparations include cranes, conveyor belts, boats, ambulances, fire tenders, swimmers, watchtowers and temporary control rooms.
The National Green Tribunal has prohibited idol immersion at Pattinapakkam and Neelankarai beaches, though alternatives had not been announced.
- Who
- Tamil Nadu police, Greater Chennai Police, Home Guards and organisations conducting Vinayaka idol processions.
- What
- Authorities deployed security and emergency arrangements for the immersion of more than 37,000 Vinayaka idols.
- When
- The immersions are scheduled for September 19 and 20.
- Where
- Across Tamil Nadu; in Chennai, permitted immersion locations include Thiruvottiyur and Kasimedu fishing harbour, while Pattinapakkam and Neelankarai are restricted by the National Green Tribunal.
- Why
- To protect crowds, maintain orderly processions and manage emergencies while enforcing court, pollution-control and safety conditions.
- Statewide deployment
- About 1 lakh policemen will protect more than 37,000 idols.
- Chennai deployment
- Greater Chennai Police will deploy 16,500 police personnel and 1,500 Home Guards.
- Chennai idols
- Permission was granted for 1,562 Vinayaka idols in Chennai.
- Immersion dates
- September 19 and 20.
- Usual Chennai locations
- Neelankarai, Thiruvottiyur, Pattinapakkam and Kasimedu fishing harbour.
- Restricted beaches
- The National Green Tribunal ordered that idols not be immersed at Pattinapakkam and Neelankarai beaches.
- Enforcement
- Violations of police restrictions and conditions may result in legal action.