Himachal Pradesh police have announced a significant strengthening of security and patrolling measures across the state in anticipation of the upcoming Diwali festival. The directive aims to ensure peaceful and safe celebrations, with a particular focus on crowded markets, religious sites, and other sensitive locations.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Director General of Police (DGP), Ashok Tewari, has issued explicit instructions to all Superintendents of Police (SPs) to oversee the preparations and ensure the strict implementation of security protocols. The measures are designed to prevent untoward incidents and facilitate a secure environment for citizens to observe the festival.
The police will also be intensifying their efforts to enforce firecracker safety regulations. A coordinated approach involving the district administration and fire services departments is being adopted to mitigate the risks of fire hazards and accidents commonly associated with the festive period.
In addition to general security enhancements, the DGP has directed SPs to conduct targeted special drives. These drives will focus on combating drunken driving, over-speeding, the sale and consumption of illicit liquor, gambling activities, and drug trafficking. The aim is to address potential public order issues and ensure adherence to traffic and safety laws.
Furthermore, authorities are prioritizing effective traffic and parking management to ease congestion in public areas. Measures are also being put in place for the protection of vulnerable populations, including women, children, and senior citizens. A key component of the security plan involves monitoring social media for the spread of rumours and misleading content, which could potentially disrupt public peace.
The operational readiness of the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) is being reinforced to ensure prompt and efficient emergency response across the state. The DGP emphasized that the police arrangements should facilitate, rather than impede, the public’s ability to celebrate Diwali.
To foster community cooperation, police personnel have been instructed to engage with traders, market associations, and community representatives. The emphasis is on treating the public with courtesy and sensitivity throughout the security operations. This approach aims to build trust and encourage public cooperation with law enforcement efforts.
SPs have been directed to conduct advance inspections of security arrangements, ensure adequate field deployment of personnel, and maintain continuous supervision of the implemented measures. Senior police officials, including Additional Director General of Police/CID and Inspectors General/Deputy Inspectors General, will be monitoring the preparedness levels across different districts. All SPs are required to submit compliance reports to the police headquarters by the following day, indicating the immediate nature of the directives.
The DGP made an appeal to the citizens of Himachal Pradesh to celebrate Diwali responsibly. He urged them to adhere to all safety precautions, particularly concerning the use of firecrackers and adherence to traffic rules. Citizens have also been encouraged to cooperate fully with the police and to report any emergencies or suspicious activities promptly by dialling ERSS-112.
The heightened security measures are a standard practice in Himachal Pradesh during major festivals, reflecting the state police’s commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety amidst large gatherings and increased movement of people. The focus on specific issues like drunken driving and firecracker safety underscores the proactive approach to mitigating common festival-related risks.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
