Kendrapara Steps Up Security for 100th Lakshmi Puja, 35 Platoons to Guard Immersion Procession

Kendrapara: Elaborate security measures have been introduced across Kendrapara town for the centenary celebrations of Lakshmi Puja, with the district police deploying a large force and strengthening surveillance to ensure peaceful and orderly festivities.

Dr. Satyajit Naik, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, Cuttack, reviewed the security arrangements and instructed officials to remain vigilant throughout the celebrations. The measures are aimed at managing large crowds, preventing criminal activities and ensuring the safety of devotees and visitors.

As part of the security plan, 22 platoons of police personnel have been deployed, supported by two Additional Superintendents of Police (ASPs), 10 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DySPs), 20 police station in-charges (IICs), 150 Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors, 250 constables and 300 Home Guards.

Eight special crowd-management teams, each headed by an inspector and supported by a platoon of security personnel, have also been constituted to respond to emergencies and regulate the movement of people. Six temporary police outposts have been established at important locations, while striking forces and motorcycle patrol units will maintain a close watch across the town.

Technology is playing a key role in the security strategy. A round-the-clock control room has been activated, and 32 CCTV cameras have been installed at strategic points to monitor public movement and identify potential security threats. Police officers have also been equipped with body-worn cameras to enhance transparency and accountability. Drone surveillance is being used to monitor crowded areas from the air.

Special arrangements have been made for traffic regulation and parking to minimise inconvenience to visitors. Meanwhile, plainclothes anti-snatching and anti-eve-teasing teams have been deployed to prevent theft, harassment and other offences, particularly in crowded areas.

Following the security review, a flag march was conducted under the leadership of IGP Satyajit Naik, accompanied by Kendrapara SP Sidharth Kateria, IPS. The exercise was intended to reassure residents and visitors while warning anti-social elements against disrupting the celebrations.

Police have announced that 35 platoons of force will be deployed during the immersion procession to ensure effective crowd control and maintain law and order until the festivities conclude.

The district police have urged people to follow traffic and parking instructions, cooperate with security personnel and refrain from spreading unverified information. Citizens have also been advised to report any suspicious activity immediately to the police control room or the nearest police officer.