As Diwali approaches, the Uttar Pradesh Police have announced extensive measures to ensure that citizens can celebrate the festival safely and peacefully. Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna outlined the steps that the police department is taking to maintain law and order, prevent accidents, and respond effectively to emergencies during the festive period. This initiative comes in response to the large gatherings and increased activity in markets, commercial hubs, and residential areas that typically occur during Diwali, which is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the state.

DGP Rajeev Krishna emphasized that the safety of citizens is the foremost priority of the Uttar Pradesh Police during this period. He stated, “To maintain law and order, police have planned several measures, including deployment of personnel — both in plainclothes and uniform — in markets and crowded areas, activation of Anti-Romeo Squads to ensure safety of women and children, regular foot patrolling by senior officers in commercial hubs, and setting up of quick reaction teams (QRTs) to respond to emergencies.” The DGP reiterated that these measures are aimed at preventing untoward incidents and ensuring that people can celebrate Diwali without fear or disruption.

The UP Police have instructed all officers to be vigilant and proactive in maintaining security in their respective jurisdictions. This includes ensuring that sufficient personnel are deployed in areas with high footfall, such as popular markets, shopping complexes, and commercial centers where crowds tend to gather in large numbers during the festival. The deployment of officers in both plainclothes and uniform is intended to provide a visible deterrent to criminal activity, while also allowing for discreet monitoring of suspicious behavior. This dual approach is expected to enhance the effectiveness of policing efforts and reassure citizens that their safety is being taken seriously.

One of the key strategies being implemented is the activation of Anti-Romeo Squads. These specialized teams have been deployed to protect women and children in public spaces, particularly in crowded markets and transit points. The Anti-Romeo Squads are trained to intervene in situations where harassment or other forms of misconduct are observed, ensuring that women can participate in the festivities without fear of harassment or intimidation. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the UP Police to promote gender safety and uphold the rights of women in public spaces.

In addition to these measures, regular foot patrolling by senior officers has been scheduled in commercial hubs and busy markets. This not only strengthens the police presence in critical areas but also allows officers to respond more swiftly to incidents and coordinate with local law enforcement units. Foot patrolling is complemented by the deployment of quick reaction teams (QRTs), which are mobile units equipped to respond immediately to emergencies, including criminal incidents, accidents, or public disturbances. The combination of stationary patrols and mobile response teams ensures that the police can maintain a strong and flexible presence across all high-risk areas during the festival.

Recognizing the heightened risk of fire-related incidents and other emergencies during Diwali, the UP Police have also instructed officers to coordinate with bomb detection squads and sniffer dog teams. These specialized units are tasked with identifying and neutralizing hazardous items, including illegal fireworks and explosives, in crowded areas and key establishments. Fire safety arrangements have also been reviewed to ensure the availability of emergency services, including fire brigades and medical support. DGP Krishna emphasized that these preparations are crucial for preventing accidents and minimizing the impact of any incidents that may occur during the festival.

Another significant aspect of the security strategy involves close coordination with excise officers and local magistrates to curb illegal liquor activities. Illegal sale and consumption of alcohol often increase during festival periods, posing a threat to public safety. By working closely with excise authorities, the police aim to prevent unlawful liquor sales, enforce regulations, and reduce the likelihood of alcohol-related incidents. Crowd management plans have been devised for railway stations, bus terminals, and other high-footfall areas to ensure smooth movement of people and prevent overcrowding. These plans include deployment of personnel to guide traffic, manage queues, and facilitate orderly entry and exit at transit points.

Technological surveillance also plays a critical role in the UP Police’s preparations for Diwali. CCTV cameras and drone monitoring will be extensively used to keep an eye on crowded locations and areas prone to disturbances. Real-time monitoring of these sites will allow the police to identify potential risks and respond promptly to incidents. The integration of drone technology provides an aerial perspective, enhancing situational awareness and enabling officers to coordinate resources more effectively. These measures are intended to complement traditional patrolling and ensure comprehensive coverage across the state during the festival period.

Social media monitoring has been identified as another key component of the security strategy. The UP Police are actively monitoring social media platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation, rumours, or provocative content that could lead to unrest. Strict action will be taken against individuals involved in spreading false information or engaging in anti-social behavior online. This proactive approach to digital monitoring aims to maintain public order, reduce panic, and address potential threats before they escalate into real-world incidents.

In addition to the enforcement measures, the police department has urged citizens to play an active role in ensuring a safe Diwali. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities and cooperate with law enforcement officers. Public awareness campaigns have been launched to remind people of the importance of adhering to fireworks safety regulations, avoiding illegal alcohol, and observing traffic rules. By promoting community participation and vigilance, the police hope to foster a sense of shared responsibility among citizens for maintaining safety and security during the festival.

The comprehensive security plan for Diwali includes several layers of precautionary measures. The deployment of personnel, activation of specialized squads, use of advanced surveillance technology, coordination with other government agencies, and public engagement efforts all combine to create a robust framework aimed at ensuring peace and order. These measures are designed to prevent accidents, deter criminal activity, and provide rapid response in the event of emergencies, ultimately allowing residents to celebrate Diwali in a safe and enjoyable environment.

DGP Rajeev Krishna stressed that maintaining law and order during festivals is a complex task that requires careful planning, coordination, and execution. He reiterated that the UP Police are committed to ensuring that all citizens can participate in the festivities without fear or disruption. By adopting a proactive and comprehensive approach to policing, the department aims to address both traditional and emerging security challenges associated with large-scale celebrations.

In conclusion, the Uttar Pradesh Police have taken extensive measures to ensure that this year’s Diwali is celebrated safely across the state. From the deployment of personnel in crowded areas to specialized squads for women’s safety, from bomb detection units and firefighting readiness to drone and CCTV surveillance, every precaution is being taken to prevent incidents and respond swiftly to emergencies. Coordination with excise authorities, local magistrates, and community members further strengthens the overall security framework. By combining technological tools, tactical planning, and community engagement, the UP Police aim to create an environment where citizens can celebrate Diwali peacefully and securely.

The department has also emphasized the importance of responsible citizen behavior in complementing police efforts. Adhering to safety regulations, avoiding illegal fireworks and alcohol, reporting suspicious activities, and cooperating with law enforcement are essential components of ensuring a safe festival. By working together, both authorities and the public can minimize risks and ensure a joyful and harmonious celebration for all.