Dhanbad, Oct. 15 -- With Durga Puja set to draw large crowds to pandals and fairgrounds, the administration and police in Dhanbad and Bokaro have intensified preparations, focusing on crowd management, emergency response, traffic regulation and communal harmony. While Dhanbad Police conducted a mock drill to test its preparedness for emergencies, Bokaro authorities issued a public advisory and announced traffic restrictions in Chas to ensure the festival passes off peacefully. In Dhanbad, the mock drill was conducted at the police centre on Wednesday on the directions of SSP Prabhat Kumar. Police officers and personnel rehearsed responses to challenging situations, with emphasis on prompt action, discipline, coordination among units and effective deployment of personnel at crowded locations. "Durga Puja security is a priority, and our preparations are aimed at ensuring that devotees can visit pandals and fairgrounds without fear. We are strengthening coordination and response mechanisms so that any untoward incident can be dealt with promptly," SSP Prabhat Kumar said. City SP Ritwik Srivastava, DSPs in charge of law and order, headquarters and traffic, along with other officers and personnel, participated in the exercise. In Bokaro, deputy commissioner Ajay Nath Jha appealed to residents to celebrate peacefully and cooperate with the administration. He urged people to follow safety instructions and traffic rules, report suspicious activities, avoid rumours and maintain communal harmony. "Our priority is to ensure a safe, peaceful and harmonious Durga Puja. People should remain alert, follow administrative instructions and immediately inform police about any suspicious activity or emergency," Jha said. SP Nathu Singh Meena said police arrangements would focus on maintaining law and order, preventing disturbances and ensuring the safety of devotees. He urged people not to take the law into their own hands and to contact emergency services whenever necessary. The traffic plan issued by the Chas sub-divisional administration will remain effective from October 16 to 21, between 2 pm and midnight. Heavy vehicles will face restrictions on specified routes, while diversions and one-way arrangements will be enforced at key junctions. Restrictions will also apply to select two-wheelers and three-wheelers on designated stretches. The administration has asked police to enforce the order and regulate traffic at the prescribed locations. Residents have been advised to use helmets, avoid drunk driving, take care of children and elderly people in crowds, and dial 112 in emergencies....