GVMC sets up Single Window Cell for Ganesh Chaturthi permissions

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has set up a Single Window Clearance Cell to streamline permissions for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations scheduled on August 27.

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg said in a statement on Wednesday that clearance cells have been established at the GVMC head office and all zonal offices. The facility is open to individuals, resident welfare associations, NGOs, voluntary organisations and festival committees.

At the head office, the nodal officers are Chief Medical Officer Dr. E.N.V. Naresh Kumar (Ph: 9848308823), City Planner V. Meena Kumari (Ph: 8374996677), Executive Engineer (Electrical) D. Sridhar (Ph: 8187898427) and Fire Officer B. Krupavaram (Ph: 9912448555). Residents can also contact their respective zonal commissioners and officials for local permissions.

Garg urged organisers to use only clay idols, warning that Plaster of Paris, thermocol and chemically painted idols are banned. For households, idols should be immersed in water containers, while colonies can use tanks arranged in local parks.

Setting up public entertainment stages in open areas will require prior nodal officer approval. The Commissioner appealed to citizens to maintain cleanliness and hygiene during the festivities.