The sight of scores of big idols lying half immersed or upside down during the low-tide had moved devotees -- all of whom took it as a bad omen, and recalled it when nearly 80 per cent of the city was under flood waters a few days later -- to call for the head of organisers, who indulge in competitive exhibitionism, to increase the idol's height.

This year the authorities have decided to restrict the idol's height to only six feet, nearly half the size that was fixed last year when some idols were 11 feet high. If Police Commissioner Kuldip Sharma is to be believed, permission will not be granted to instal idols of more than six feet. They will also be refused permission to take out a procession.

Last year the sculptors and organisers had made mockery of the police directive by increasing the idol's base while restricting its height. This time the police have decided not to allow idols that are more than six feet broad.

A meeting was held between members of Ganeshotsava Samiti, sculptors and police officials a couple of days ago, to ensure that the 10-day festival which begins on September 13 passes off peacefully. Sharma said organisers and sculptors agreed that they won't exceed the six-feet stipulation.

Use of vermilion (gulal) will be allowed only on the immersion day, that too within the locality. Throwing of vermilion or white powder on the main thoroughfares will be banned till the immersion is over. Letting off crackers during ganpati procession has also been prohibited, the police claimed.

They have also issued a routine warning of dealing strictly with elements found drunk on the occasion.

Organisers have been asked to collect in time permits for installation and immersion processions from the city police's special branch. Organisers found violating the rules will be prosecuted, the police said, adding the sale of tickets to public will not be allowed. Organisers found selling tickets would be prosecuted.