IGP Reviews Security for Ravana Dahan, Durga Idol Immersion Across Central Range
Cuttack, October 20, 2026: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, Cuttack, Dr Satyajit Nayak, IPS, on Tuesday reviewed security arrangements, police deployment and safety measures for Ravana Dahan on Vijayadashami and the phased immersion of Goddess Durga idols across the districts under the Central Range. The immersion processions will continue until October 26.
Durga Puja was celebrated at 1,243 pandals across the Central Range, which also encompasses prominent Shakti shrines such as Maa Sarala, Maa Charchika, Maa Bhattarika and Maa Sirlo. The police have coordinated with district administrations, local bodies, Puja committees and other departments to ensure peaceful celebrations and the orderly conduct of immersion processions.
As part of the security arrangements, adequate police personnel have been deployed at Ravana Dahan venues, procession routes, sensitive locations, major junctions and designated immersion ghats. A total of 43 platoons of police personnel, along with Home Guards, will be deployed under the supervision of senior officers to manage crowds, regulate traffic and prevent untoward incidents.
The IGP emphasised the need for safe conduct of Ravana Dahan, effective crowd management, proper barricading, maintenance of safe distances from the burning effigies and adequate fire safety measures. Special attention is also being given to security at Meena Bazaars and fairgrounds, entry and exit management at Puja pandals and immersion venues, traffic diversions and parking arrangements along procession routes.
The security plan also focuses on preventing incidents that could disturb communal harmony, protecting women, children and senior citizens, and ensuring adequate lighting, fire safety equipment and CCTV surveillance at major Puja pandals and immersion sites.
Dr Nayak has directed all Superintendents of Police in the Central Range to remain vigilant, maintain close coordination with all concerned departments and submit situation reports (SITREPs) until the immersion process is completed. He stressed that the phased immersion programme must be conducted strictly according to the prescribed schedule, with particular attention to safety at immersion ghats, water bodies and crowded roads.
The police have appealed to citizens and Puja committees to cooperate with the authorities, follow designated routes and timings, maintain discipline and refrain from spreading rumours. People have also been urged to comply with safety instructions and promptly report suspicious activities or emergencies to the nearest police station or by calling 112.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, Odisha Police has called upon people to ensure that Ravana Dahan and Durga idol immersion are conducted peacefully, with devotion, dignity and a sense of responsibility. The police said maintaining communal harmony and public order would require the continued cooperation of citizens and organisers throughout the immersion period.
