Patna DM, SSP Review Durga Puja Preparations, Emphasize Law and Order and Crowd Control

Chirag Gupta

Patna: District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police Rajiv Mishra held a comprehensive review meeting to discuss law and order management for Durga Puja in Patna. During the meeting, they emphasized the need for robust intelligence systems, special vigilance at sensitive locations, and active coordination between officials and Puja committees.

Both officers stressed the importance of efficient crowd management, ensuring smooth traffic flow, and maintaining public safety during the festivities. They directed officials to monitor sensitive areas closely, keep the Quick Response Team (QRT) and Quick Medical Response Team (QMRT) on standby, and utilize drones and CCTV surveillance for constant monitoring.

To ensure safety, all police station in-charges will visit the Puja pandals, with police escorts accompanying processions. Regular patrolling by QRTs has also been mandated. Municipal Commissioner Animesh Kumar Parashar announced a special cleanliness drive with teams working 24×7 to eliminate dark spots along procession routes and ensure proper lighting throughout the city.

The DM instructed all regional officers to maintain constant coordination with Puja committees and hold peace committee meetings promptly. Preventive measures should be taken against individuals involved in past incidents, and rumors should be swiftly addressed. The use of CCTV cameras and banners informing the public of surveillance was also highlighted as a crucial step for safety.

Strict guidelines were issued regarding the organization of fairs, cultural programs, and processions, all of which require prior permission from the administration. Puja pandals must comply with disaster management guidelines, and organizers are responsible for ensuring proper fire safety, loudspeaker management, and crowd control. The immersion of idols will be conducted exclusively in temporary ponds to prevent pollution.

The District Magistrate reiterated the ban on fireworks, DJs, and loudspeakers after 10 PM, in accordance with environmental and safety regulations. All immersion routes will be monitored, and SDRF and NDRF teams will be deployed at river ghats to prevent accidents during idol immersion.

With the upcoming Durga Puja and other festivals, the administration has committed to ensuring public safety through close supervision, coordinated efforts, and strict law enforcement. All regional officers were urged to remain vigilant and enforce law and order without compromise.