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The city turned into a vibrant canvas of devotion, energy, and colour on Monday as thousands thronged the streets to celebrate Ram Navami with immense zeal and religious fervour. Traditional fervour met stringent security arrangements as the city witnessed one of the largest and most well-coordinated processions in recent years.

A total of 168 Akhara committees enthusiastically participated in the day-long immersion processions. Armed with traditional weapons, saffron flags, and unyielding devotion, they moved through the city performing daredevil stunts, much to the awe of onlookers. Youths wielding swords, sticks, and even fluorescent tubelights captivated the public with their synchronized displays. The Sakchi Bal Mandir members stole the spotlight with spectacular two-wheeler stunts.

Adding rhythm to the festivities were band troupes and sankirtan parties, with participants from various corners of East Singhbhum joining in. Religious chants, drum beats, and cheers echoed through the streets, painting a picture of joyous devotion. Streets of Sakchi, Kadma, Sonari, Mango, and Bistupur transformed into spiritual corridors as keertan groups, young and old, sang praises of Lord Ram.

To ensure a peaceful celebration, the district administration implemented a multi-layered security plan. Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal shared that 1188 police personnel and 251 magistrates were deployed across strategic points in the city. Each super zone was overseen by designated Super Zonal Magistrates and Super Zonal Police Officers, tasked with maintaining swift and responsive law enforcement.

Adding to the robust security framework, 135 static magistrates remained posted at sensitive locations to handle any emergent law and order issues. The District Control Room, operating 24/7, was manned by a team of rotating officers, with additional personnel on standby. A reserve of 33 magistrates, including 21 for Dhalbhum and 12 for Ghatsila, was kept on alert for emergency deployment.

The administration adopted a tech-enabled approach by deploying drone surveillance near key junctions such as Sakchi police station, Mango roundabout, and Subernarekha river ghat. All licensed Akhara committees were mandated to have their own videographers, while the administration also deployed official videographers at high-traffic areas like Kadma, Sonari, and Mango police station.

With immersion points designated across seven river ghats, including Subernarekha (Sakchi), Kapali (Sonari), Sati (Kadma), Domuhani (Sonari), and Bhuiyandih (Sitaramdera-Sidhgora), crowd control was meticulously managed by 32 static magistrates under the supervision of seven zonal magistrates.

Medical preparedness was also a key highlight. The East Singhbhum civil surgeon’s office deployed ambulance-equipped teams with first aid kits at 19 critical locations, including Gandhi Maidan roundabout, Mango roundabout, Kapali Ghat, and Bharat Sevashram Sangh. Around 14 divers, mostly local fishermen trained in rescue operations, were stationed at key ghats to handle water-related emergencies.

In view of the large crowds, traffic diversions and road blockades were implemented around Sakchi and other major areas. All liquor outlets remained closed for the day to maintain public order. Armed police, equipped with tear gas shells and supported by paramilitary forces, stood vigilant in sensitive areas.

Community participation went beyond the spiritual. Several religious and social organisations set up stalls offering snacks, water, and sweets to processionists. Streets were adorned with welcome gates and saffron banners, as Jamshedpur residents embraced the celebration in full spirit.