Cuttack: With the Rath Yatra taking place July 14 this year, the police department is preparing itself to effectively plug loopholes and maintain law and order during the world-famous festival.
DGP RP Sharma reviewed the preparedness of the police department Tuesday for this year’s Rath Yatra. A meeting was held in the presence of senior police officers wherein the DGP explained the new steps planned for maintaining law and order, managing traffic and ensuring the safety of pilgrimages during the festival.
Important aspects like security, total number of armed forces on deployment, manpower requirement for security units, the security gadgets required and other related logistics were discussed. The DGP asked the cops to take all possible steps for smooth conduct of the Srimandir rituals, including Debasnana Purnima, Srigundicha Yatra, Bahuda Yatra, Sunabesa and Niladri Bije.
“Central Security forces will be deployed. Besides, three newly formed special teams of Odisha Police would be on the job to keep vigil during the festival. Although the National Security Guards (NSGs) are deployed only during an emergency, we are seeking their temporary stationing at a spot near Puri, so that their services can be immediately sought if and when a need arose,” the DGP told the media.
“Taking into consideration the increase in crime against women, stringent measures will be taken to ensure their safety. Policemen in plainclothes will keep an eye on anti-socials. CCTVs will be installed and woman constables deployed to ensure vigil during the festivities,” he stated.