Hyderabad: With preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 underway, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar has urged Ganesh Utsav organisers to limit the height of idols to 15 feet to ensure safe transportation and immersion. The advisory was issued during a meeting with representatives of the Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Samithi, focusing on public safety during the festival.
The Commissioner explained that the height restriction is intended to prevent accidents involving overhead electricity lines. He noted that power lines on most city roads are around 22 feet above the ground, while the trolleys used to transport idols are approximately 4 feet high. Keeping idol heights within 15 feet provides sufficient clearance and reduces the risk of electrocution.
Recalling previous incidents, Sajjanar said that two people lost their lives after a large Ganesh idol came into contact with overhead power lines in the Bandlaguda area. He also referred to an incident where an oversized idol became stuck beneath the Panjagutta flyover, causing disruption and safety concerns.
The Commissioner urged organisers to plan safety measures from the idol manufacturing stage itself and coordinate with idol makers well in advance. He also warned against attempting to lift overhead power lines using sticks or plastic pipes during processions, saying such practices are extremely dangerous and have resulted in fatal accidents in the past.
Police have appealed to all Ganesh Utsav committees to cooperate with authorities and follow the safety guidelines to ensure that this year’s celebrations and immersion processions are conducted peacefully and without accidents.
