Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the immersion ceremony of Dussehra festival, the police in the Odisha capital here have stepped up security arrangements and issued a strict warning against the use of DJ vehicles in immersion processions.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Saravana Vivek M. said criminal cases would be registered against both vehicle owners and organisers if DJ vehicles are found participating in the processions.

The DCP said all puja committees had been clearly informed about the ban. Instructions have also been circulated to all Inspectors-in-Charge (IICs) and Zonal Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) to ensure strict enforcement.

“Multiple meetings have been conducted with the organisers, and it has been clearly communicated that if any DJ vehicle joins the procession, a criminal case will definitely be registered,” the DCP said.

6 immersion locations identified

Elaborate arrangements have been made at six major idol immersion locations under the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) area, along with designated locations in rural areas.

The DCP said special rescue units and emergency response arrangements had been put in place to handle any crowd-related exigencies. Cranes and lighting facilities have also been arranged, as immersion activities are expected to continue throughout the night.

He expressed confidence that the celebrations and immersion processions would proceed smoothly with the cooperation of the public.

‘Ravan Podi’ at 9 locations

Meanwhile, security arrangements have been made at nine locations where ‘Ravan Podi’ events are scheduled to take place Wednesday evening. Senior police officers have been assigned responsibility for each location to ensure proper management and public safety.

According to the DCP, a minimum distance of 100 metres has been prescribed between the designated restricted zone and the nearest point from where spectators can watch the events.

Each Ravan Podi venue will have a fire tender and special rescue units equipped to manage crowds and respond to emergencies. Police personnel have also been deployed and mobilised at each location according to security requirements.

The police have urged the public and event organisers to cooperate with the authorities and follow safety instructions to ensure peaceful and incident-free celebrations.