An official release from the police said already the men in uniform had created awareness among residents in their jurisdiction. People could burn the cow dung cake and materials made of wood. Already the High Court had directed the police to take necessary action against the violators, the release said.

In view of the Pongal festival, adequate protection has been provided at places in which people gather in large number such as railway stations, bus termini, commercial complexes, shopping malls. Apart from this, places such as Mambalam, Kodambakkam, Purasawalkam, Luz Corner, Mylapore, Flower Bazaar, recreation centres, Tourism and Trade Fair at Island Grounds, Marina and Elliots Beaches and places of worship have also been provided adequate security, the release said.

Mounted police will patrol the coastline and surveillance cameras have been installed at a few places. In order to stop the people from entering the waters, the police have installed fences on the beach front.

The police also requested the people to refrain from bathing in the sea.

A rescue team has been formed with 35 fishermen as its members to help rescue and to help those getting caught in the waters. A medical team would be kept ready at the beach to help to provide first aid to those drowned in the waters. The police would also operate ‘May I Help You’ booths.

Plain clothes men would be posted to check eve teasing and drinking in public places, the release added.

Students’ rally

Students of S.S. Shasun Jain College for Women organised a rally on Monday to promote awareness of a ‘pollution free Bhogi’.

Mayor M. Subramanian, who flagged off the rally, encouraged students to continue their efforts to curb air pollution.

He planted a few saplings on the campus and joined the rally. College Secretary S. Abhaya Kumar was also present on the occasion.

The rally began at the college and covered parts of T.Nagar, including South West Boag Road, Madurai Veeran Koil Street, Burkit Road, Venkatnarayana Road, Pinjala Subramaniam Street and Usman Road.

About 1,000 students and staff shouted slogans and carried placards with messages against burning things on Bhogi day as it could affect respiratory health.