Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Police and State Fire Services are on high alert to tackle any accident or untoward incidents during the Holi celebration in the State.
DGP Y B Khurania has already issued directives to all SPs and DCPs, emphasising the need for heightened vigilance during Holi festivities.
The instructions include strict measures against troublemakers and police stations have received specific orders to exercise extra caution in areas prone to communal tensions.
Police Officers have been asked to conduct regular patrols in their respective jurisdictions to prevent any untoward incidents. Special attention will be given to crowded areas, marketplaces and religious sites, Shri Khurania said.
The DGP had also directed to deploy additional forces in areas identified as sensitive or prone to disturbances. Police personnel have been directed to keep a close watch on social media platforms to prevent the spread of rumours or inflammatory content.
The Twin City Police Commissionerate has made special security arrangements for Holi, which will be celebrated in Odisha tomorrow.
The Commissionerate of Police have also set guidelines for event management organisations hosting Holi celebrations in the city.
Surveillance teams will monitor sensitive areas to curb any instances of hooliganism or unruly behavior. The police have urged citizens to celebrate responsibly, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the festive spirit while adhering to safety guidelines.
As many as 20 platoons of police force will be deployed on Holi to maintain law and order in Bhubaneswar.
Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena informed that special police teams will patrol to crack the whip on drunkards creating public nuisance.
“We have strictly asked the event managers not to overcrowd venues. They should deploy licensed private security guards. Special care should be taken to ensure the safety of women. Separate arrangements should be made for female revellers and families in groups. Liquor should not be served at the Holi parties,” Shri Meena said.
“I urge people not to enter water bodies in an intoxicated condition. We will deploy police, ODRAF and Fire Services teams at different river ghats. Besides, drunk and driving will be monitored strictly,” said the Bhubaneswar told media persons.
Cuttack DCP Rishikesh Khilari informed that 22 platoons of police personnel will be deployed to maintain law and order during the festival in Cuttack city.
He warned people who will consume alcohol during Holi celebrations.
“Anyone found playing Holi under the influence of alcohol will face stringent action,” he warned.
To enforce this, all liquor shops in the city will remain closed during the festival, and illegal sale of alcohol will be met with immediate legal consequences.
To further ensure public safety, the DCP has advised citizens to wrap up Holi celebrations between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This measure aims to prevent late-night disturbances and maintain a peaceful environment. Additionally, people have been strongly advised against bathing in rivers after playing Holi, citing potential safety risks.
In Puri, police have made security arrangements for foreign tourists participating in local Holi celebrations.
“Though there has been no instance of any misconduct towards any foreigner in living memory, we do not want to leave anything to chance. To prevent drowning incidents, we have asked hoteliers and lifeguards on the beach to keep a watch on swimmers. Tourists should take the assistance of lifeguards while bathing in the sea,” Puri SP Vinit Agrawal said.
To maintain safety, Fire Services personnel will be deployed at all major river ghats. The Fire Service units across State have been asked to remain in full readiness and guard all major water bodies for quick response in case of any untoward incident.