330 CCTV cameras to monitor security during weeklong fest

The international Mahashivratri fair is all set to officially begin in Mandi on February 27. The local police have put a stringent security and traffic management plan in place to ensure a smooth and safe festival for thousands of devotees and tourists visiting the city.

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According to SP Sakshi Verma, over 800 police personnel, including eight gazetted officers, non-gazetted officers grade-I and II and Home Guard jawans, will be deployed across the city to maintain law and order during the weeklong celebrations.

She said, “Mandi city has been divided into six key sectors, including vital areas such as Paddal Mela Ground, devta protection, city core area, the route extending from Khaliyar to Bidrawani and the Malori Tunnel. For better surveillance and quick response, additional CCTV cameras will be installed, taking their number in Mandi to 330. These cameras will monitor high-traffic and sensitive spots during the fair to ensure the safety of all participants.”

Sakshi said, “In terms of traffic management, various routes will be regulated to avoid congestion and temporary bus stops have been set up at key locations. Special arrangements for emergency vehicles have been made and heavy vehicles will be restricted from entering the core area during peak hours. Designated parking spaces have been arranged in the city, including at the Victoria Bridge, Bhima Kali Temple and the Gymkhana Club, among others, to accommodate an expected large number of vehicles.”

The SP emphasised the establishment of a dedicated Shivratri Fair Control Centre at Paddal Ground to address any emerging situation, including lost and found cases. The police had also set up special cells, including an anti-gunda cell, to monitor and take action against miscreants involved in eve teasing, chain snatching, theft and other criminal activities. The detection cell would specifically focus on curbing drug peddling and handle excise-related issues during the fair, she added.

With the deployment of advanced surveillance and a vigilant police force, the authorities concerned aim to make this year’s Shivratri fair one of the safest and most enjoyable occasions for all participants. The police also warned that offenders would face strict action in line with their operations and proactive monitoring. The public was being are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or emergency to the Shivratri Fair Control Centre at Paddal Ground or via the emergency helpline number 8580703286. The police also shared mela control room number 01905225600.

The fair is expected to draw thousands of visitors and the strict arrangements will ensure it goes on without compromising safety or security. Over 200 deities will take part in the festival.

Governor, CM extend greetings

• Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu have extended greetings to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri
• The Governor said that Mahashivratri was a festival of spiritual strength, self-discipline and devotion
• “Himachal, which is also known as Dev Bhoomi, is home to many sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. For this reason, the festival is more special for the people of the state,” he added
• Shukla urged people to celebrate Mahashivratri with religious fervour and enthusiasm while praying for the peace, prosperity and development of the state
• The Chief Minister said that from the time immemorial, people had been celebrating the festival with great enthusiasm and fervour. “As Himachal Pradesh is known as the abode of Lord Shiva, the festival is celebrated at various places with great enthusiasm,” he added
• Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Pathania, Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur and BJP’s state president Rajeev Bindal also wished the people of the state on the festival