Odisha Police have heightened security measures for the upcoming Holi festivities in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, as confirmed by Suresh Dev Datta Singh, Commissioner of Police. With the tradition of grand Holi celebrations in these cities, the authorities have implemented comprehensive safety protocols, including additional precautions this year.
Commissioner Singh revealed that approximately 30 police platoons and about 100 officers will be stationed in key areas with high footfall. The focus will be on maintaining order, preventing any disruptive behavior, and ensuring the safety of all citizens during the festive period. Special attention will be given to upholding safety standards without causing inconvenience to the public.
In preparation for the celebrations, fire services and ODRAF personnel will be present at 10 bathing ghats and riverbanks to prevent any untoward incidents. Moreover, four quick-response teams will be on standby to address emergencies promptly. To enforce regulations effectively, 17 mobile teams equipped with breath analysers will conduct checks for drunken driving at 85 locations across the twin cities.
The Commissioner issued a specific advisory to the youth, urging them to prioritize their safety and avoid risky behaviors, especially when influenced by substances. Identifying vulnerable riverbanks and water bodies prone to incidents during Holi, the police have deployed forces strategically to ensure public safety. He cautioned against engaging in dangerous activities like deep swimming or risky stunts that could lead to accidents.
Emphasizing the value of every young individual to their families, the Commissioner stressed the irreplaceable nature of human life and called for both parents and youth to act responsibly. He discouraged mass bathing events at unsafe sites and warned of joint enforcement actions by the Excise Department and police to maintain law and order during the celebrations.
