Cuttack, October 20: Inspector General of Police (IG), Central Range Dr Satyajit Naik on Tuesday reviewed the security arrangements, force deployment and safety measures for Ravan Podi/Dahan and the immersion of Maa Durga idols across all districts of Central Range. Immersion processions will continue in phases till October 26.

Durga Puja was celebrated at 1,243 Puja Mandaps across Central Range, including prominent Shakti Peethas such as Maa Sarala, Maa Charchika, Maa Bhattarika and Maa Sirlo. District Police have put in place elaborate security and traffic management arrangements in close coordination with District Administration, local bodies, Puja Committees and other stakeholder departments.

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Adequate police personnel have been deployed at Ravan Podi/Dahan venues, along immersion routes, at sensitive locations, major junctions and designated immersion ghats/points to ensure smooth and orderly movement of processions. A total of 43 platoons of police force, along with Home Guards, will be deployed under the supervision of senior officers.

Special focus areas

- Safe conduct of Ravan Podi/Dahan on Vijaya Dashami, including crowd control, barricading, safe distance and fire safety at venues

- Safety at Meena Bazaar and fairground areas

- Crowd management and entry/exit regulation at Pandals and immersion points

- Traffic regulation and parking management along procession routes

- Prevention of untoward incidents and maintenance of communal harmony

- Safety of women, children and senior citizens

- Lighting, fire safety and CCTV coverage at important Pandals and immersion points

Directions to field officers

The IG directed all Superintendents of Police of Central Range to remain alert, maintain close coordination with all departments, and submit SITREPs until completion of the immersion. He stressed that phase-wise immersion should be conducted strictly as per schedule, with special attention to safety at ghats, water bodies and congested routes.

Appeal to the public

The top cop also urged citizens and Puja Committees to cooperate with police, adhere to prescribed routes and timings, maintain discipline, avoid rumours and follow all safety instructions. Any suspicious activity or emergency may be reported immediately to the nearest police station or Dial 112.