September 21, 2025

Thane city is getting ready for Navratri in a big way! But hold on, there's a serious new rule this year. The Thane Police Commissionerate has put a strict ban on using plasma lights, beam lights, and laser beams during the Navratri celebrations and processions. Why? Because these super bright lights can harm people's eyes and create risky situations on the roads. On September 17, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Branch) brought out this order under Section 163 of the Indian Security Act. It's because many Navratri mandals use very bright lighting to make their garba dances and cultural shows shine at night. But these dazzling lights can be dangerous! According to a police officer, "The bright illumination from these lights can cause eye injuries to participants and spectators, including children, elderly citizens, and the general public, potentially endangering their health." Not just that, these beams can distract drivers and cause accidents, leading to chaos. If anyone breaks this rule, police will act against them under Section 223 of the Indian Justice Code 2023. People are encouraged to report any violations to the police control room right away. But wait, there’s a strong safety plan too! The police have gone all out to make Navratri celebrations smooth and safe. This year, there will be 608 public and 3,254 private Durga idols displayed. Plus, 133 public and 287 private images of deities will be there. And the fun? Around 590 public and 500 private places will hold garba and cultural shows across Thane. To keep everyone safe, especially all the women and girls dancing garba and dandiya, Thane Police Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbre said, "police have deployed maximum plain-clothes male and female officers to prevent harassment, molestation, chain/mobile/purse snatching, and vehicle theft. The social media cell has been activated to monitor religious tension-creating messages, posts, and videos on social platforms." The police force is impressive: 10 deputy commissioners, 18 assistant commissioners, 16 inspectors, 44 sub-inspectors, 33 women officers, 2,673 male and 610 female personnel are on duty. They have 52 jeeps, 20 big vehicles, 35 wireless sets, 100 walkie-talkies, and more gadgets ready to ensure celebration without any trouble. So, gear up for a dazzling yet safe Navratri in Thane! Remember, the light of tradition must shine bright, but without the plasma and laser flashes that can harm or distract. Celebrate with joy, dance with spirit, and stay safe with police watching over all festivities.

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Tags: Thane police, Navratri, Plasma lights ban, Safety measures, Garba events, Public health,