Madikeri: Police have discussed Gonikoppal Dasara procession and directed the Dasha mantapa committees to comply with sound limits, schedules and other regulations. Virajpet DSP Mahesh Kumar, addressing committee presidents and office-bearers at Umamaheshwari Temple hall, said the procession should meaningfully highlight Kodagu’s indigenous culture, heritage and mythological stories.Each of the 10 tableau groups will be allowed four speakers, which may measure approximately 4 feet in width and 2.5 feet in height and must operate within prescribed noise levels. Kumar said compliance with HC orders on noise pollution was everyone’s responsibility.Citing the recent incident during Virajpet’s Gowri-Ganesha festival where an electric fire incident ended in the death of a person, police said permission for DJ music would not be granted under any circumstances. Officials suggested cultural programmes and diverse performances to enhance the celebrations without DJs.Sri Cauvery Dasara Committee working president Kullachanda Pramod Ganapathi said thousands of people were expected to attend the 11-day festival. The committee’s mantapas will leave Umamaheshwari Temple at 9pm.Gonikoppal Circle Inspector Shivaraj Mudhol said police personnel would be assigned to each mantapa.
