High alert in Bihar for Durga Puja; 57 additional companies deployed, with police keeping a close watch everywhere.

Durga Puja security, additional police force, anti-riot squad, special security arrangements, Patna. The police administration has made extensive security arrangements to conduct the festival of Durga Puja in Bihar in a peaceful and safe environment. Bihar Police Headquarters has deployed 57 additional companies to strengthen security arrangements in all the districts of the state including the capital Patna. These include 11 companies of Central Armed Police Force, 34 companies of Bihar Special Armed Police and 12 companies of Anti-Riot Squad. Apart from this, 16,624 trained constables and 5,100 home guard personnel have also been deployed in security arrangements. Special vigil is being maintained on puja pandals, crowded markets, sensitive areas and idol immersion routes. The aim of the police is to prevent any untoward incident during the festival and to provide a safe environment to the common people.
57 additional companies deployed in all districts
Bihar Police Headquarters has deployed additional security forces across the state to maintain law and order in view of Durga Puja. Security has been increased especially in those areas where a large number of devotees are likely to arrive.
According to the information released by the Police Headquarters, the 57 additional companies include 11 companies of Central Paramilitary Forces, 34 companies of Bihar Special Armed Police and 12 companies of Anti-Riot Squad.
These forces have been given the responsibility of handling security arrangements by coordinating with the local police. The presence of additional troops at sensitive locations will help in taking immediate action in case of any emergency.
More than 16 thousand soldiers and 5100 home guards deployed
A large number of other police personnel along with additional companies have also been deployed to strengthen security during the festival.
According to official information, 16,624 basic trained constables and 5,100 Home Guard soldiers have been deployed for security arrangements in various districts.
These soldiers will perform duty along with the local police at puja pandals, major intersections, markets and other public places.
The purpose of deployment of such a large number of security forces is to make effective crowd management and maintain peace and order during the festival.
Special security arrangements in Patna
In view of the huge crowd of devotees during Durga Puja in the capital Patna, the police administration has paid special attention to security preparations.
Patna Police has planned to deploy around 450 paramilitary personnel during the puja. Apart from this, local police and additional forces are also being deployed for security arrangements.
Special focus of the police will be on puja pandals, major roads and crowded areas. Surveillance has also been increased for the safety of women and children.
Police officers have been instructed to remain alert to prevent crimes related to anti-social activities, illegal weapons and drugs in the capital.
Special attention will be kept on idol immersion processions
Idol immersion is one of the most important events during Durga Puja. During this time, a large number of devotees come out on the streets, which increases the challenge of traffic and crowd control.
Bihar Police has made special security arrangements to prevent any untoward incident during the immersion processions.
Police officers have been instructed to remain alert along with deployment of additional troops in sensitive areas.
Coordination is being ensured between the local administration and the police to maintain peace and control the crowd on the procession routes.
Strictness on use of DJ and loudspeaker
Rules have also been imposed on the use of DJs and loudspeakers to prevent noise pollution and law and order problems during Durga Puja.
The administration has instructed the organizing committees to follow the prescribed conditions and noise related rules.
Action can be taken against playing loud sound equipment without permission or in violation of prescribed rules.
The police administration has appealed to the puja committees to cooperate in maintaining peace and harmony.
Special surveillance in sensitive areas
Special vigilance is being taken to maintain law and order in sensitive areas of the state.
Extensive security preparations have also been made for Durga Puja in Biharsharif of Nalanda district. Here, arrangements have been made for deployment of paramilitary forces and Bihar Special Armed Police personnel in puja pandals, major markets and sensitive areas.
615 puja committees have taken license in Bihar Sharif. The administration has given instructions to ensure provision of fire fighting equipment, safe exit and adequate volunteers in puja pandals.
Security preparations at 664 places in Gaya
In Gaya district also, police and administration have made preparations for peaceful celebration of Durga Puja.
The security arrangements were reviewed in the joint briefing of the District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police.
A total of 664 places have been identified in the district. Arrangements have been made for deputation of 739 senior magistrates, police officers and police force for these places.
The aim of the administration is to maintain peace and order during the festival and ensure timely action in case of any possible dispute.
Administration sought cooperation from puja committees
In the successful organization of Durga Puja