Central Range Police Tighten Security for Ravan Dahan, Durga Idol Immersion

Cuttack, October 20, 2026: Odisha Police have stepped up security measures across the Central Range to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of Ravan Dahan on Vijaya Dashami and the phased immersion of Goddess Durga idols. IGP Central Range Dr. Satyajit Naik, IPS, reviewed the security arrangements, police deployment and safety protocols on Tuesday.

The immersion processions will continue in phases across the Central Range districts until October 26, with police focusing on crowd management, traffic control and the prevention of untoward incidents.

43 Platoons to Be Deployed for Security

Durga Puja was celebrated at 1,243 pandals across the Central Range, including prominent religious sites such as Maa Sarala, Maa Charchika, Maa Bhattarika and Maa Sirlo. District police, in coordination with the administration, local authorities and Puja committees, have implemented comprehensive security arrangements for the post-Puja events.

Around 43 platoons of police personnel, supported by Home Guards, will be deployed under the supervision of senior officers. Security personnel will be stationed at Ravan Dahan venues, procession routes, sensitive locations, major traffic intersections and designated immersion points.

Crowd Control and Public Safety in Focus

The IGP directed officers to ensure adequate barricading and fire safety at Ravan Dahan venues, maintain order in Meena Bazaar and fairground areas, and regulate entry and exit at crowded pandals and immersion sites.

Traffic movement and parking arrangements will also be closely monitored along procession routes. Special attention has been directed towards the safety of women, children and senior citizens, along with proper lighting, CCTV surveillance and fire prevention measures at key locations.

Police have also been instructed to take preventive steps against possible disturbances and ensure communal harmony throughout the celebrations.

SPs Directed to Maintain Vigilance

Dr. Naik instructed all Superintendents of Police in the Central Range to remain vigilant and maintain effective coordination with concerned departments. Officers have been asked to submit situation reports (SITREPs) until the immersion process is completed.

He further emphasised that all immersion processions must follow the prescribed schedule, with particular care taken at riverbanks, water bodies, crowded stretches and other vulnerable locations.

Police Appeal for Public Cooperation

Odisha Police have urged citizens and Puja committees to follow designated routes and timings, comply with safety guidelines and cooperate with the authorities. People have also been advised not to spread or believe rumours and to report suspicious activities or emergencies to the nearest police station or by calling 112.

Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, Odisha Police appealed to residents to maintain peace, mutual respect and communal harmony so that Ravan Dahan and Durga idol immersion conclude safely and peacefully across the Central Range.