SURAT : To ensure a peaceful atmosphere for the Ganesh Visarjan (immersion) on Anant Chaudash, extensive security arrangements have been put into action under the direction of Surat City Police Commissioner, Ajay Tomar.
A robust deployment of security personnel has been organized, including forces from 12 SRP, 1 RAF, two Joint Commissioners of Surat City, and 1 BSF. Alongside them, an Additional CP Crime and a comprehensive team comprising 16 SP, 35 ACP, 106 P.I., 205 P.S.I., 4206 police personnel, and 5533 home guards will ensure safety during the yatra. In total, around 15,000 officers and police personnel will be monitoring the procession.
Harnessing the power of technology, the police will utilize body-worn cameras, drones, reflective jackets, and other electronic devices. Drone cameras and CCTV systems will monitor critical areas, especially Dhaba Points, ensuring comprehensive surveillance. Policemen will be positioned strategically at each of these points.
Police Commissioner Ajay Tomar provided insights into the meticulous arrangements, which include accelerated procession routes for Ganesh organizers and over 20 artificial lakes constructed specifically for the immersion of the idols. Activities such as playing DJs have been restricted during the procession to maintain decorum.
As devotees prepare to bid an emotional farewell to Lord Ganesha after nine days of worship, police presence has been reinforced on all immersion routes, artificial ponds, and popular immersion sites like Hazira and Dumas beaches. The police department has issued a detailed notification highlighting different routes to regulate traffic during the immersion.
With approximately 80,000 idols installed across the city, a specialized GPS system has been implemented for larger statues. This ensures they follow designated immersion paths and allows the police to monitor their movement. Authorities are also taking measures to curtail potential crimes, such as extortion or snatching incidents, during the yatra. In addition, the Surat City Police conducted a march past across all immersion routes as a pre-emptive security measure.
