Patna: Preparations are underway for the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Gandhi Maidan, Patna, with officials assuring a grand and seamless event. District Magistrate (DM) Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Avakash Kumar inspected the site on Thursday, accompanied by senior officials, to review progress and finalize arrangements.
Dr. Singh emphasized the significance of teamwork and meticulous planning, directing all departments to ensure flawless execution. He stated: “Republic Day is a fixed-time, fixed-venue event. It requires seamless coordination and unwavering diligence from all involved.”
Preparations and zoning
The DM announced that Gandhi Maidan has been divided into four zones, each overseen by Additional District Magistrates and Additional Superintendents of Police. A subcommittee led by the Deputy Development Commissioner is monitoring arrangements round the clock, ensuring preparedness across all areas.
Key preparatory tasks, including grass cutting, tree pruning, and pathway repairs, have been completed. Glow signboards, decorative pathway lights, and high-mast lights at the venue’s gates are fully operational. A 48-member team is maintaining cleanliness through a zone-wise deployment strategy.
Security measures and surveillance
In an effort to bolster security, a temporary police station and control room have been set up within Gandhi Maidan. Surveillance will be maintained via 128 CCTV cameras installed by Patna Smart City Limited, comprising 61 fixed cameras, 22 pan-tilt-zoom cameras, and 45 analytic cameras. These will cover the venue’s interior and perimeter, with operations monitored from the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC).
Eighteen watchtowers, eight permanent and ten temporary, have also been installed to ensure comprehensive monitoring of the area.
Lighting and technical arrangements
Dr. Singh highlighted extensive lighting enhancements at the venue, with 136 LED metal lights, 229 pole lights, and 20 high-mast lights installed across 34 towers. Additional lighting inside the ground includes 15 high-mast lights, 56 decorative lights, and 98 pole lights. The Gandhi statue area is illuminated by 28 park lights, with engineers on standby to address technical issues promptly.
Departmental responsibilities
The DM outlined specific responsibilities for various departments:
1. Barricading and repairs: The Building Construction Department will handle ground barricading and gate repairs.
2. Seating arrangements: Clear signage and protocols for seating will be implemented.
3. Electricity: Lighting systems, including high-mast and pathway lights, will remain fully functional.
4. Rehearsals: Parade rehearsals began on January 11, with the final practice scheduled for January 24.
5. Sanitation: Regular cleaning operations, grass cutting, and tree pruning will continue.
6. Drinking water: Adequate water tankers and ATMs will be installed.
7. Medical support: First aid centers equipped with doctors, staff, and ambulances will be set up.
8. Fire safety: Two fire squads will be stationed at the parade ground.
9. Traffic management: Traffic Police will regulate the flow of vehicles, and alternate routes will be published in newspapers.
Community celebrations
Flag hoisting ceremonies will also take place in Mahadalit communities, with the oldest community member performing the honors. Officials, teachers, and development workers will assist in these ceremonies.
Administrative assurance
DM Dr. Singh and SSP Kumar assured the public that crowd management, law and order, and traffic regulation remain top priorities. “All officials are fully alert, prepared, and committed to ensuring the event’s success,” they said.
Officials present during the inspection included Deputy Development Commissioner Samir Saurabh, Central City SP Sweety Sahrawat, and Sadar Sub-Divisional Officer Gaurav Kumar.
