LUCKNOW, Oct. 13 -- With 176 Durga Puja pandals and around 100 Ramlilas lined up across Lucknow district, city police have stepped up security arrangements for the festive season, with the swollen Gomti adding to the preparations required at riverfront locations. Joint commissioner of police (law & order) Babloo Kumar said all 176 pandals where Durga idols will be installed have been inspected to check fire safety arrangements, electrical installations and security measures. "Organisers have been instructed to ensure that pandals do not obstruct roads or movement and that adequate safety arrangements are in place for devotees," Kumar added. The preparations come as Navratri and Durga Puja festivities get underway, with large gatherings expected at temples, puja venues and Ramlila grounds in the coming days. Police teams have been directed to maintain a visible presence through mobile patrols and static deployments. Women police personnel also being deployed across the district. "Around 100 Ramlilas are scheduled to be held, culminating in Ravan Dahan events on Dussehra. Police have inspected the venues and will deploy additional force wherever required to manage crowds and maintain law and order," the JCP said. Security arrangements have also been reviewed at major religious sites, including Chandrika Devi temple and Kali Mata temple, where static police deployments have been made. Senior police officers and personnel at police stations have held meetings with religious leaders and peace committee members to coordinate arrangements. Officials said previous disputes and incidents had been reviewed and necessary steps taken to prevent any law and order issues during the celebrations. Fire department personnel and security teams have also been instructed to remain prepared throughout the festive period. The rising water level of the Gomti remains an additional concern, particularly for arrangements around riverbanks and ghats. Kumar said necessary precautions were being taken in view of the water level, with further arrangements for lighting, drinking water and security to be made as conditions permit when the water recedes. Police have also directed organisers to ensure that idol-installation sites and surrounding areas remain accessible and that safety measures are followed throughout the celebrations....