Pune City Police Bolster Security Measures For Navratri and Dussehra Festivals

Sumit Singh

Pune, 15th October 2023: In light of Shardiya Navratri commencing today and the upcoming Dussehra celebrations, Pune City Police have intensified security arrangements across the city to prevent any potential disruptions by anti-social elements.

As Pune’s estimated population has crossed 43 lakhs in 2023, up from 31 lakhs according to the 2011 census, authorities are taking no chances with the city’s public safety.

Retesh Kumaarr, Commissioner of Pune City Police, commented, “We have made extensive security preparations and appropriate steps are being taken. Anti-social elements will be handled stringently. We appeal to the public for their continued cooperation.”

To ensure the smooth conduct of the festivities, approximately 4,000 law enforcement personnel, including city police officers and constables, will be deployed. Additionally, one company of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) has been allotted to assist Pune Police if necessary.

To further fortify security, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads (BDDS) will be stationed at high-traffic areas. Meetings have been held with divisional officials to discuss security protocols, and numerous safety awareness campaigns have also been carried out. Local mandals have been advised to install CCTV cameras to enhance surveillance capabilities.

Given that Pune has over 100 identified sensitive and nearly 90 hypersensitive spots, the police are also actively monitoring social media platforms to curb the dissemination of rumors or inflammatory posts. Monitoring will be conducted both at the police station level and within the headquarters. Officers from the Crime Branch will be deployed in civilian clothes at these vulnerable locations.

After issues related to noise pollution were noted during the recent Ganeshotsav celebrations, and following a PIL filed in the Bombay High Court, Pune Police have stated that strict action will be taken against those contributing to noise pollution, laser beam hazards, and traffic congestion.

R Raja, DCP (Special Branch), added, “Let’s celebrate the festival responsibly, ensuring no one faces any difficulties. Everyone should come together to enjoy the festivities.”