CCTV Cameras, Plainclothes Cops To Intensify Security At Bhubaneswar Puja Pandals

CCTV Cameras, Plainclothes Cops To Intensify Security At Bhubaneswar Puja Pandals

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 30 (UDN): The Commissionerate Police has strengthened its security strategy for the upcoming festive season in Bhubaneswar, with enhanced surveillance, CCTV monitoring and deployment of plainclothes personnel planned at major puja pandals across the city.

 Representational Image 

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Dr Saravana Vivek M said police would identify locations considered vulnerable based on incidents reported during previous festive seasons and increase patrolling and surveillance in those areas.

“We will review the security situation for the upcoming festive season and take necessary measures. Places identified as vulnerable during previous festive seasons will be kept under special surveillance, with additional patrolling in those areas,” the DCP said.

As part of the security plan, puja committees and organisers have been asked to install CCTV cameras at their respective pandals. Police have already held meetings with organisers to discuss crowd management and other security arrangements.

“CCTV coverage will be ensured at the pandals. We have already discussed the security arrangements with the organisers, and they will have to install CCTV cameras as part of the security measures,” DCP Saravana Vivek said.

Police personnel in plain clothes will also be deployed at various pandals to monitor suspicious activities, keep an eye on crowds and prevent crimes such as chain-snatching and other offences targeting women.

According to the DCP, photographs of habitual offenders and individuals previously involved in snatching cases will be circulated among police personnel to facilitate identification and monitoring during the festive period.

The police have also intensified their watch on unauthorised or forced collection of donations during the festive season. All police stations have been directed to monitor such activities and take action against those found violating the law.

“Strict action will be taken against those involved in forcibly collecting donations. All police stations have been instructed to remain vigilant and take action as per law,” the DCP said.

Surveillance will also be stepped up against criminals coming from outside the state, the DCP added.

Police officials will coordinate with inspectors-in-charge and senior officers to assess security requirements at different locations and finalise deployment plans accordingly.

The Commissionerate Police has urged puja committees to give priority to the safety of devotees and ensure adequate security and crowd-management arrangements at their pandals.

The enhanced patrolling, CCTV surveillance and deployment of police personnel will remain in place throughout the festive season to maintain public safety and ensure the smooth conduct of celebrations across Bhubaneswar.