Bhubaneswar, September 16: As the festive season approaches, Odisha Police have initiated comprehensive security plans to ensure public safety across the Central Range. A high-level meeting was convened on Monday at the State Police Headquarters in Cuttack, led by Dr. Satyajit Naik, DIG (Central Range) to discuss security measures for the seven districts in the region.
The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendents of Police (SPs) from Cuttack, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, and Jajpur. The focus was on maintaining law and order, protecting religious gatherings, safeguarding tourist spots, and ensuring the safety of vulnerable groups during the upcoming festivals.
DIG, Dr. Naik stressed that the police would be prioritizing crowd control, ensuring the safety of women and senior citizens, and preventing crimes during major festivals. “We have reviewed both scheduled and non-scheduled law and order arrangements and directed district police units to enhance surveillance and patrolling, especially in sensitive areas,” he said.
A particular focus has been placed on securing Puri, where high footfall is expected at the Jagannath Temple and Puri beach. Security measures will include an increased deployment of forces, drone surveillance, and the establishment of no-fly zones around key locations. The proposal for anti-drone systems around the Jagannath Temple is currently under review, with plans in the conceptual stage.
Discussions also covered ongoing enforcement drives under Operation Prahar and Operation Agni, aimed at combating organized crime, drug trafficking, and repeat offenders. "We are strengthening the implementation of these operations at the ground level and improving coordination between districts," DIG Naik added.
To further enhance safety, Odisha Police are set to deploy additional CCTV surveillance units, improve 24/7 control room monitoring, and establish temporary police outposts in areas with high foot traffic during the festivities.
Special attention will be given to the safety of Habisyalis—elderly women pilgrims visiting Puri during Kartika month. Measures will include providing adequate accommodation security, medical assistance, and travel support for these pilgrims.
Additionally, police presence will be bolstered in public spaces, markets, religious sites, and transport hubs, with a particular emphasis on traffic management and road safety.
"Our goal is to ensure that the festive season across the Central Range is celebrated peacefully and without incident. Public cooperation, alongside heightened police readiness, will be crucial in achieving this," concluded DIG Naik.
