September 25 Holiday Announced for Hyderabad, Rangareddy and Medchal-Malkajgiri

The Telangana government has taken a key decision in view of the Ganesh idol immersion and declared September 25 a holiday for government offices, schools and colleges in Hyderabad, Secunderabad and surrounding areas.

The General Administration Department issued orders on Wednesday announcing the holiday across the twin cities and adjoining areas in Hyderabad, Rangareddy and Medchal-Malkajgiri districts. The decision has been taken considering the large-scale immersion processions expected across the city and the inconvenience they could cause to commuters and residents.

The holiday will apply to government offices, schools and colleges located in the specified areas of the three districts. Authorities said the measure was intended to facilitate the smooth movement of Ganesh immersion processions and help the public avoid difficulties caused by traffic diversions, road closures and large gatherings.

The government has also announced that September 25 will be compensated by observing November 14, the second Saturday, as a working day. The arrangement will apply to the concerned government offices and educational institutions in Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Rangareddy and Medchal-Malkajgiri. Chief Secretary Sanjay Jaju issued the official orders.

Meanwhile, the Future City Police Commissionerate has announced restrictions on the sale of liquor during the immersion celebrations. Police Commissioner Dr Tarun Joshi ordered wine shops, toddy shops and bars attached to restaurants to remain closed for 24 hours.

Under the order, the establishments must remain shut from 6 am on September 25 until 6 am on September 26. The restrictions have been imposed under Section 20 of the Telangana Excise Act, 1968, with police stating that the measure is aimed at maintaining public peace and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere during the celebrations.

However, bars operating in star hotels and registered clubs have been exempted from the closure order. Police directed all establishments covered by the order to comply strictly with the restrictions during the specified period.

The measures come as devotees prepare for the culmination of the 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Thousands of idols are expected to be taken in processions for immersion, prompting authorities to introduce special administrative, traffic and security arrangements across the affected areas.