SURAT: Ahead of the Dasha Maa festival celebrations, the Surat Police Commissionerate has issued a public notification announcing several restrictions across Surat city. The rules will remain in force from August 12 to August 21, 2026, with authorities focusing on idol height, immersion practices, procession routes, colours and festival arrangements. The notification aims to ensure public safety, maintain cleanliness and protect natural water bodies during the festival.
Restrictions on Dasha Maa Idol Height
Under the new guidelines, idols of Dasha Maa, including the base or platform, exceeding 9 feet in height will not be permitted.
For Plaster of Paris (POP) and fibre idols, a stricter height limit has been imposed. Such idols measuring more than 5 feet cannot be manufactured, sold, installed or transported through public roads within the Surat Police Commissionerate area. Authorities have warned organisers, manufacturers and sellers to strictly follow the prescribed limits.
POP and Fibre Idols Cannot Be Immersed in Natural Water Bodies
One of the key provisions concerns idol immersion. POP and fibre idols cannot be immersed in rivers, lakes or other natural water sources. Organisers must use artificial ponds created by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) or designated immersion points at the sea. Where artificial immersion ponds have been created at specific locations, organisers must follow the designated arrangements and permits.
Strict Rules for Idol Immersion and Processions
The notification also prohibits organisers from taking idols to immersion points other than those permitted under the applicable arrangements.
Other restrictions include:
- Using routes other than the route mentioned in the immersion permit.
- Taking fibre idols out in procession on the day of immersion or after the immersion day.
- Using toxic chemical-based colours that do not dissolve in water.
- Placing symbols or material on idols that could hurt religious sentiments of another community.
- Creating unhygienic conditions at idol manufacturing or selling locations.
- Abandoning unsold or damaged idols in public places.
- Keeping festival mandaps installed for more than two days after the festival concludes.
Focus on Environmental Protection
The restrictions on POP and fibre idol immersion are aimed at reducing pollution and protecting Surat’s natural water bodies. POP idols are known to be difficult to dissolve naturally, while certain paints and chemical colours can contaminate water. By directing organisers toward artificial immersion ponds and designated sea immersion points, authorities are seeking to reduce the environmental impact of the festival.
Festival Restrictions to Remain in Force Until August 21
The public notification will remain applicable until August 21, 2026. Police authorities have made it clear that violations of the notification can result in legal action and punishment under applicable laws. Citizens, idol makers, sellers and festival organisers have been urged to follow the prescribed rules and cooperate with the administration during the Dasha Maa celebrations.
Surat Authorities Urge Organisers to Follow Guidelines
With Dasha Maa festival celebrations expected across several parts of Surat, the police administration has placed emphasis on orderly celebrations, environmental safety and compliance with immersion regulations.
Organisers are advised to obtain the necessary permissions, follow approved procession routes and ensure that idols meet the prescribed height and material requirements. The restrictions are intended to allow devotees to celebrate the festival while maintaining public safety, religious harmony and environmental responsibility across Surat.
Also read, Surat Set to Grand Tiranga Yatra Scheduled for August 13 Ahead of Independence Day
Watch Latest News Videos on KRH News: Click Here