New Delhi, Oct. 19 -- Over 13,000 police personnel will be deployed across Delhi-NCR to ensure tight security during Dussehra celebrations, with heightened vigilance at religious sites and places expected to see large public gatherings, officers said.
Around 2,200 police personnel have been deployed at 66 'Ravan Dahan' sites, 17 religious processions and other related events in Gurugram, with police making extensive security arrangements for Dussehra on Tuesday.
Elaborate security arrangements with 1,200 police personnel have also been made in Faridabad to maintain law and order.
Traffic police have also prepared plans for smooth crowd management.
Delhi Police said its personnel will be deployed round the clock at sensitive locations, while senior officers will inspect deployment sites to review security arrangements and ensure adequate manpower. Around 10,000 police personnel will be deployed across Delhi for Dussehra, it said.
Special attention will be given to crowded areas, prominent temples, pandals and venues where Dussehra events are organised, as authorities expect a significant footfall during the celebrations.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Central District, Angad Mehta, said the district experiences a substantial increase in footfall during the festive season, requiring extensive security arrangements.
"The Central District experiences a very heavy load during the festive season. Beyond Dussehra, we also see a significant footfall at Jhandewalan during Navratri. Furthermore, Durga Puja celebrations are currently underway simultaneously at multiple locations," Mehta said.
"Consequently, the Central District has put comprehensive arrangements in place, with police personnel, both male and female, deployed around the clock. Senior officers also conduct regular visits to the deployment sites.
In light of this, we have ensured the deployment of an adequate police force," he added.
Police officers said security personnel would be positioned at strategic locations to manage crowds, maintain law and order and respond swiftly to any emergency during the festivities.
The deployment will also focus on preventing pickpocketing, snatching and other street crimes that tend to pose a challenge in crowded areas during major festivals. Police teams will remain alert to any suspicious activity, officers said.
Crowd management and traffic regulation will be key components of the security plan, particularly around major religious sites and venues hosting Dussehra events. Police personnel will coordinate with other agencies to ensure the smooth movement of devotees and visitors.
Senior officers will monitor the arrangements and assess requirements at different locations.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.