Patna District Admin Tightens Security for New Year: Ban on Ganga Boats, Biker Patrols, and Traffic Restrictions
Sakshi Deepu
Patna: Ban on boat operations, intensive patrolling, and deployment of over 69 magistrates to ensure public safety.
Patna’s district administration has unveiled a comprehensive security plan for New Year celebrations, focusing on crowd management, traffic flow, and law enforcement. Following a meeting chaired by District Magistrate (DM) Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shri Avakash Kumar on Tuesday, officials emphasized heightened vigilance across the city.
Over 69 magistrates and police officers have been stationed at 87 key locations, supported by armed forces, women personnel, and lathi forces. Quick Response Teams (QRT) and special mobile patrols have also been deployed to prevent any disruptions, with a particular focus on controlling biker gangs. Police station heads and sub-divisional officers are conducting continuous patrols, with directives to take swift action, including arrests, if necessary.
Focus on Crowd Control at Key Locations
Crowd-heavy spots such as Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Eco Park, Gandhi Maidan, Patna Junction Hanuman Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Kumhrar have been identified as priority areas. Officials have instructed the removal of encroachments near footpaths around these sites to facilitate smooth pedestrian movement.
With many visitors expected to travel via Mahatma Gandhi Setu to the Diara region near Hajipur, additional personnel have been deployed to ensure unimpeded traffic flow on the bridge. Major hotels and clubs within the city are also under increased surveillance, with intensive patrolling planned to manage large crowds.
Ban on Boat Operations in Ganga River
To prevent accidents, private boat operations in the Ganga River have been banned from 4 PM on December 31, 2024, to 6 PM on January 1, 2025. Sub-divisional officers have been directed to enforce the prohibition rigorously, while the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) will conduct river patrolling. Divers and rescue teams have been placed on standby to handle any emergencies.
Ambulances equipped with medical teams and essential supplies have been deployed at key locations, including Eco Park, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna Junction Hanuman Temple, and ISKCON Temple.
Restrictions on Vehicular Movement
In a bid to curb potential disruptions, vehicular entry on Atal Path, JP Ganga Path, and roads leading from Collectorate Ghat to Raja Ghat and Mitan Ghat has been restricted until late January 1. Barricading and foot patrols are in place, with additional personnel deployed along these routes.
Intensive Monitoring Across the City
The District Control Room will operate with 33 magistrates working in four shifts, supported by fire brigades and other essential teams. Additional district magistrates and police superintendents will oversee law enforcement in both urban and rural areas, conducting late-night vehicle checks and ensuring compliance with security measures.
Officials have urged all deployed personnel to remain alert and proactive throughout the celebrations. “Our goal is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all residents during the New Year celebrations,” the DM and SSP stated.
Vigilance Against Biker Gangs
Biker gangs remain a key concern for the administration. Continuous patrolling, along with immediate action, has been mandated for police station heads and sub-divisional officers. Key areas like JP Ganga Path and the newly constructed Atal Path have been flagged as potential hotspots for biker-related disruptions.
Preparedness for Emergencies
To address any contingencies, the administration has stationed ambulances at major tourist and religious sites. River patrolling by NDRF and SDRF teams will ensure safety near waterways.
The city’s top officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring a safe environment for the public as they welcome the New Year.
