learning from their laxity during Ganesh visarjan, Delhi Police have made appropriate arrangements for immersion of idols at all ghats in the Capital.
Immersion of idols that started on Sunday evening would continue till Monday. There were elaborate security measures by police along the river banks. Boats and derricks were in place at all ghats. Over 500 police personnel ensured smooth visarjan. However, fewer idols were immersed on Sunday. Immersions took place at Wazirabad, Qudessia Ghat and Geeta Ghat near ISBT Kashmere Gate, Kalindi Kunj. A groundswell had also gathered on the Yamuna banks at Sonia Vihar and Burari.
“During Ganesh visarjan last month, eight people had lost their lives. A large number of immersion processions trigger massive traffic gridlocks in the city. This time around, we have deployed four units of police personnel and instructed officials seek reinforcements, if needed,” said a senior police officer, adding there are police booths offering urgent assistance to the faithful either lost in the labyrinth of ghats or got separated from their loved ones.
Police personnel posted at these police assistance booths on a rotational basis have been asked to be ready to offer immediate assistance to the devotees.
“There were elaborate security arrangements by police along the river banks, where hundreds congregated. Civic authorities also took measures to ensure that the immersion went off smoothly and the waters stayed protected from effluence,” the officer added. Police personnel at the booths have also been asked to keep an eye out for suspicious movement, if any. Apart from local police, personnel of Intelligence unit, anti-sabotage team and local Intelligence units had also been mobilised.
“Enough boats were available at all the ghats. Around 500 police personnel were at hand,” the officer added. Meanwhile, Traffic Police have made special arrangements for Durga Puja visarjan. Immersion of idols in the River Yamuna will be allowed from Monday 1 pm onwards. Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Anil Shukla, said because of diverted traffic, congestion is likely to take place. Motorists are requested to be patient, observe traffic and road discipline and follow the directions of traffic personnel at all intersections.