Chennai: As the city gears up for Vinayagar Chaturthi, various forms of Ganesha idols were out on full display at Kosapet, a hub for large idols in the city.Idols made of papier mache, clay and natural gums were displayed on the roadside, with several wrapped in plastic sheets and ready for sale. “The idols, varying from 1ft to 9ft tall, are procured from Cuddalore and Tirupati and cost between ₹3,000 to ₹40,000. We have half-trunked, one-tusked idols, and even Siva-type idols where Ganesha’s skin is blue,” said Prabhakar, an idol maker. As for retail outlets, shopkeepers said that idols made of marble dust had gained customers’ interests.Meanwhile, police have urged Hindu organisations and public taking part in the festivities to obtain no-objection certificates from the fire and rescue services and electricity departments for places where they are installing idols. The idols must not exceed 10ft in height and should not be placed anywhere other than the finalised 2,500 designated spots. According to police guidelines, “CCTV cameras must be installed at the locations where Vinayagar idols are installed for security purposes.”Greater Chennai Corporation commissioner G S Sameeran said the civic body would provide three cranes, 30 iron plates, 10 mobile toilets and water tanks along the Loop Road adjoining Pattinampakam where most of the immersion in the city happens.
