India, Oct. 18 -- Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Vinaytosh Mishra has directed strict security arrangements at Durga Puja pandals across the state to ensure the safety of devotees during the festive season.

Speaking about the security measures, Mishra said that large pandals have been set up in Bhubaneswar, Kataka, Balasore and other parts of Odisha, attracting a huge number of people for darshan.

"We have issued strict instructions to ensure the deployment of police personnel at every pandal. Volunteers appointed by the respective puja committees will also assist the police in managing crowds and maintaining order," he added.

The DGP emphasised that entry and exit gates at pandals must be properly regulated to prevent overcr...