Guwahati, Oct 15: Guwahati Police have stepped up security arrangements for Durga Puja, with a focus on night-time safety, traffic management and crowd control.
The city police have deployed 300 additional personnel, apart from traffic personnel, and intensified patrolling to ensure the safety of devotees and visitors throughout the festival.
Joint Commissioner of Police, Guwahati, and DIGP (AP) Ankur Jain said additional security measures had been put in place to prevent untoward incidents, particularly during late-night hours when large numbers of people visit puja pandals.
“Last year, there were 506 puja venues, and this year we expect an additional 50 to 60. We have deployed 300 additional personnel, apart from the traffic personnel, to strengthen security arrangements,” Jain said.
Highlighting the focus on night-time security, Jain said additional motorcycles had been arranged for patrolling to ensure effective surveillance in the city’s bylanes.
“We have 50 additional bikes for patrolling to strengthen safety and security, particularly in the bylanes. Traffic personnel will be deployed at every location, and we are making special arrangements to manage traffic during the night,” he said.
Police have also imposed restrictions on the use of microphones and loudspeakers at puja pandals. Their use will not be permitted after 10 pm, although mantras may be played at a reduced volume.
Traffic enforcement will be intensified during the festival, with special drives planned against drunk driving. Police personnel will conduct checks at various locations, and violators will face action.
Two-wheeler riders must wear helmets, with the rule applying to both drivers and pillion riders.
Puja committees have been instructed to deploy an adequate number of trained volunteers to assist devotees, manage queues and respond to emergencies.
Earlier, police had made CCTV cameras, fire safety systems, public address systems and separate entry and exit arrangements for men and women mandatory at puja venues.
Contact numbers for the local police station must be prominently displayed at every pandal.
Special traffic arrangements have been planned to manage the expected increase in vehicle movement, particularly during the evening and night, when pandals are likely to witness heavy footfall.
Pandu Ghat and Lachit Ghat have been identified as the main venues for idol immersion, with security and logistical arrangements being planned to ensure a smooth process.
“This time, we are looking at introducing a railing system at the immersion ghats to make the process faster and more organised. We have held discussions with APDCL and the fire services to ensure the necessary arrangements are in place,” Jain said.
Guwahati Police have appealed to puja committees and the public to follow the guidelines, cooperate with security personnel and celebrate Durga Puja responsibly.