Patna: Preparations are in their final stages for the Ravan Dahan, the ceremonial burning of Ravana’s effigy, at Gandhi Maidan in Patna on Vijayadashami, October 2. Divisional Commissioner Dr Chandrashekhar Singh and Inspector General of Police Jitendra Rana conducted a review of arrangements with local officials on Monday, emphasising that the event is a fixed-venue, fixed-time celebration.
Authorities have outlined extensive measures to manage the anticipated crowd and ensure safety. The police bike squad will patrol continuously, while all deployed magistrates, officers, and personnel are instructed to remain at their designated positions until attendees have dispersed.
Gandhi Maidan has been divided into four sectors, each overseen by an Additional District Magistrate and a Deputy Superintendent of Police. A total of 103 magistrates will be deployed across 49 locations in and around the Maidan, supported by three Quick Response Teams. Surveillance will be strengthened with 128 CCTV cameras and ten watchtowers manned by Civil Defence personnel. Lighting will include 34 light towers, 136 LED metal lights, 229 pole lights, and 15 high-mast lights.
Entry to the venue will be through gates 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, and 12, with all gates open for exit. Media representatives will enter via gate 13, while vehicles will be barred from entering the Maidan area. Nine ambulances with medical teams will be on standby.
This year’s Dussehra promises to be a spectacular affair, with an 80-foot-tall Ravana effigy, specially designed by Agra-based artists, scheduled to be set ablaze at 5:45 pm. Effigies of Meghnath and Kumbhakarna will stand 75 feet and 70 feet tall, respectively, accompanied by an elaborate fireworks display. Officials have urged the public to cooperate with security protocols and enjoy the festivities safely.
