Security has been tightened at Durga Puja mandaps across Chattogram, with all venues brought under closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance and drones deployed where necessary to ensure peaceful celebrations.
Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasan Mohammad Shawkat Ali told TIMES during a courtesy meeting on Monday. Total 294 puja mandaps in the city had been classified into three categories — less important, important and highly important — based on security risks, with personnel deployed accordingly.
He said security arrangements began during idol-making and had been strengthened further as the festival approached.
Uniformed police, plainclothes officers and intelligence personnel have been deployed, while drones are being used for surveillance where necessary.
The CMP commissioner said round-the-clock security would be maintained on the day of idol immersion.
He also confirmed that preparations had been completed for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s visit to the JM Sen Hall puja mandap in Rahmatganj.
Meanwhile, Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Jahidul Islam Miah told TIMES on Monday afternoon that the government and district administration were working together to ensure uninterrupted and joyful celebrations.
He said government assistance for the Hindu community to celebrate Durga Puja had been increased compared with previous years.
Security had been strengthened throughout the district, with 12,500 Ansar members deployed and all puja mandaps brought under CCTV surveillance.
Volunteers had also been organised to support security arrangements and ensure smooth celebrations.
The deputy commissioner said upazila nirbahi officers, assistant commissioners (land), executive magistrates, tag officers and officers from the deputy commissioner’s office were actively monitoring security and preparations at the mandaps.
He said he had been visiting different puja mandaps alongside Superintendent of Police Masud Alam to inspect the arrangements.
The deputy commissioner also visited a fishermen’s community on Sunday and spoke with residents.
He said the administration was making efforts to ensure that low-income families could also celebrate the festival in a joyful atmosphere.
