Pune police ban protests, require permission for gatherings during Ganeshotsav
With Ganeshotsav around the corner, Pune police are putting safety first by requiring prior permission from the Pune police commissioner for gatherings of more than five people, banning protests and processions from September 15 to 28.
Carrying weapons or anything explosive is also off-limits.
The order was issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (special branch) Prashant Amrutkar, citing security and law-and-order concerns during Ganeshotsav and other festivals.
Pune traffic changes for idol buyers
If you're heading out to buy a Ganesh idol between September 12 to 14, expect some traffic changes: traffic will be closed on Shivaji Road between Gadgil Putla Chowk and Gotiram Bhayya Chowk, and no-parking restrictions apply on Sinhagad Road between Savarkar Putla Chowk and Samadhan Chowk, plus one-way arrangements on some roads in Keshavnagar-Mundhwa.
Heavy vehicles are barred on specified stretches in Keshavnagar-Mundhwa from 6am to 10pm but there are special parking spots for buyers and PMPML busses will run on changed routes.
Motorists have been advised to follow the diversions and cooperate with traffic personnel during the festivities.