Bengaluru, 12 September (H.S.): The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has ordered a complete ban on animal slaughter and the sale of meat across the city on September 14 in connection with Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

The festival will be observed on Monday, and the restrictions will remain in force throughout the GBA’s jurisdiction. An official circular issued by the Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry prohibits the slaughter of animals at all abattoirs and the sale of meat at shops within the city limits.

The authorities have directed residents, traders and meat shop owners to comply strictly with the order. Anyone found slaughtering animals illegally or selling meat in violation of the ban will face stringent legal action, the circular warned.

Meanwhile, elaborate arrangements have been made for the immersion of Ganesh idols at the designated kalyani at Halasuru Lake. Only eco-friendly clay idols will be permitted for immersion, while idols made of Plaster of Paris have been prohibited to prevent water pollution.

CCTV cameras will be installed in and around the immersion site to monitor activities and ensure public safety. The authorities have also arranged round-the-clock crane services, ambulances, adequate lighting, drinking water facilities and traffic management measures.

Officials and emergency response teams will be deployed at the venue during the immersion ceremonies to assist devotees and prevent untoward incidents. Barricades and other crowd-control arrangements are also expected to be put in place.

Idol immersions will be allowed on September 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27 and 28, according to Commissioner Jagadish G.

Immersion activities will remain temporarily suspended on September 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 and 25 to facilitate cleaning and maintenance of the kalyani. The authorities have urged devotees and festival organisers to follow the notified schedule and cooperate with officials.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman