Kolkata, Ap 17: Security measures were intensified in Kolkata and Howrah on Tuesday in anticipation of Ram Navami, with Kolkata alone witnessing the deployment of 5,000 personnel as the city prepares for 60 processions on Wednesday.
In Howrah, authorities are utilizing drones to monitor sensitive areas, with a slight increase in deployment compared to the previous year, according to a statement from a Lalbazar officer.
Officials including DIGs, SPs, and other senior figures have been directed to ensure sufficient presence of law enforcement to facilitate peaceful celebrations.
Kolkata Police has provided procession organizers with a list of guidelines, including adherence to high court directives. Permissions have been granted with the condition that no more than 200 individuals participate in each rally, although there are no restrictions on multiple processions converging at specific points, a practice observed in central Kolkata in recent years. However, authorities have stipulated a prohibition on loud music and limited the number of vehicles permitted.
The supervision of the four major processions will be overseen by senior officers, who have implemented additional CCTV surveillance along designated routes and adjusted schedules to mitigate congestion, as stated by an official.
In addition to drone surveillance in Howrah, both Kolkata and Howrah police will conduct video recording of the processions. Liquor shops and bars in Howrah and West Midnapore have been instructed to remain closed.
The Chief Election Commission has mandated videography of processions involving political figures.
In Kolkata, 3,000 police officers have been deployed to ensure a peaceful Ram Navami, with stations engaging with community leaders to deter illegal activities. Chandernagore is slated for 13 rallies, while Dalkhola may experience route diversions.
Repeat offenders are under close monitoring following meetings chaired by Goyal.
