Khordha (Odisha) [India], October 21 (ANI): Comprehensive and multi-layered security measures have been initiated across seven districts within the Central Range to facilitate the peaceful observance of Durga Puja and the upcoming idol immersion ceremonies, confirmed a senior police official on Wednesday.
In a statement to ANI, Inspector General of Police (IGP) for Central Range Cuttack, Satyajit Naik, noted that extensive security plans are now active in both urban and rural areas, addressing the expected large number of devotees visiting puja pandals and key pilgrimage sites in the region.
‘There are 1,243 Durga Puja mandaps in the seven districts of the Central Range. We also have significant Shaktipeeths within our jurisdiction. Therefore, detailed police arrangements have been established for the celebration of Durga Puja and the immersion processions. Over 40 platoons of forces, in addition to Home Guards, have been deployed,’ Naik stated.
The police official highlighted that district police leaders have been instructed to maintain strict surveillance and provide constant oversight during the festive period.
‘All SPs have been directed to remain vigilant at all times,’ Naik remarked, adding that field units are closely observing communal sensitivities, public order, and law enforcement logistics along the designated immersion routes.
‘To ensure complete public safety, the deployed police personnel will collaborate with specialized reserve battalions and traffic management teams. We have incorporated drone surveillance, fixed CCTV cameras, and mobile reconnaissance patrols at critical intersections and high-traffic festival areas,’ Naik explained.
Additionally, special quick-reaction teams and plainclothes intelligence officers have been strategically positioned near puja venues to deter antisocial behavior and prevent theft or harassment.
The administration has also been working closely with local puja organizers and peace committees to ensure compliance with standardized regulations, fire safety measures, scheduled immersion times, and controlled noise levels at the designated riverbanks and water ghats, aiming for the grand festivities to conclude smoothly and peacefully across all seven districts of the Central Range.
This heightened security framework in Odisha follows a tragic incident in North Kolkata, West Bengal, where a stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals and left 25 others injured. (ANI)
