Nagpur: Bappa’s arrival and immersion processions in the city will be without dazzling beam and laser lights this year.CP Nagpur Vishwas Nangre Patil invoked Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code, 2023, and banned the use of beam lights and laser beam lights across the Nagpur City Police Commissionerate from midnight on Sept 3 till 11.59pm on Nov 1.The prohibitory order covers the entire festive stretch that includes Gokulashtami, Dahi Handi, Pola, Tanha Pola, Tajuddin Baba Chhabbisvi, Ganeshotsav, Dhammachakra Pravartan Din and Durga idol arrival and immersion.Police say high-intensity beams and lasers used by mandals and programme organisers during processions pose a risk of eye and other health issues. They can also momentarily blind motorists, leading to accidents and a law-and-order situation on crowded festival routes.All owners and holders of such lights, as well as organisers of festive processions, have been directed to keep every beam and laser light in their possession sealed and unused for the full period.The order, signed by CP Nangre Patil on Sept 2, is preventive. Officials noted that festival processions often move through busy roads at night, when sudden laser flashes can startle drivers and spectators, including children perched on Dahihandi human pyramids or packed along immersion routes.There is no restriction on traditional lighting, music and decorations.City police will keep a close watch on processions and local programmes throughout Sept and Oct to ensure the ban is not violated.
