Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jan 16: In view of the Udupi Paryaya Mahotsava scheduled on January 17 and 18, the district administration and police have put in place extensive security and traffic arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the religious event. With over one lac devotees expected to participate, elaborate measures have been taken to maintain law and order, regulate traffic and ensure the safety of devotees and dignitaries.
For bandobast and security duties, a large police force has been deployed from Udupi district and neighbouring districts. The deployment includes one superintendent of police, one additional superintendent of police, eight deputy superintendents of police, 21 police inspectors, 61 sub-inspectors, 110 assistant sub-inspectors, 812 police personnel and 200 Home Guards. In addition, four Karnataka State Reserve Police units, 14 District Armed Reserve platoons and five anti-sabotage squads have been pressed into service.
To strengthen surveillance, 70 CCTV cameras have been installed in and around the Sri Krishna Math premises. Temporary police outposts have also been set up near the Math to assist the public and respond swiftly to emergencies.
Additional arrangements include the deployment of one quick response team, six ambulances, six fire engines and five fire bullets, 24 public address systems, six police help desks, 12 binoculars, three drone cameras and 300 barricades to regulate crowd movement and traffic flow.
Speaking to the media, SP Hariram Shankar said the Udupi Paryaya would be held on January 17 and 18 and described it as a major religious event that takes place once every two years. He said all necessary arrangements have been made, adding that more than 300 police personnel from other districts have been deployed and that, in total, over 1,000 police officials and Home Guards will be on duty.
He said tight security arrangements will be in force from 2 pm on January 17 till 6 am on January 18 and will continue during the anna santarpane. He added that a coordination meeting was held in the presence of the Swamiji, the district administration and Udupi district police. Traffic diversion details have already been circulated and regular updates will be shared through the Udupi district police social media handles.
The SP also urged the public to remain alert and take care of their valuables during the celebrations.