Puri: Amid a total ban imposed on fireworks during the upcoming Chandan Yatra festival in Odisha’s Puri, police in the pilgrim town stepped up measures to strictly enforce the government’s prohibition.
It has been decided to deploy at least five platoons of force at the Narendra tank for 21 days in view of the Chandan Yatra, which begins on Akshaya Tritiya on Wednesday.
The ban on fireworks has been imposed after a devastating incident that took place at Narendra tank during the Chandan Yatra celebrations in the pilgrim town on May 29, 2024, due to a series of explosions from powerful crackers. The mishap claimed the lives of 17 persons, including seven minors.
According to Puri Superintendent of Police, there is a complete ban on firecrackers during the festival and police personnel have been asked to remain extremely alert. Violators will face stringent action, he said while appealing to devotees to celebrate the festival without firecrackers.
The SP, who held a security assessment at the Narendra tank along with other officers, said that an additional SP, 5 DSPs, 8 inspectors, 20 sub-inspectors, 4 havildars, 37 constables and 58 home guards will be stationed to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival.
A feedback centre will also be set up by the Puri police at the Narendra tank, where all complaints will be received. People can share their travel experiences, the SP added.
