As the nine-night festival of Navratri approaches, Ahmedabad Rural Police have introduced a detailed security plan for Navratri under the campaign Safe Navratri (Salamat Navratri). The objective is to ensure that thousands of devotees and participants can celebrate the festival peacefully across the district without facing any safety concerns.
This year, Navratri festivities will take place at 792 locations in Ahmedabad Rural. These include 21 commercial garba events, 32 large public garba grounds, and 739 street-level celebrations. To manage such large-scale gatherings, a comprehensive four-layer security system has been designed and launched under the direct supervision of the Superintendent of Police (SP), Ahmedabad Rural.
Deployment of Forces
To strengthen law and order during Navratri, a massive police presence will be visible throughout the district. The force will consist of:
- One Superintendent of Police (SP)
- Four Deputy Superintendents of Police (DySPs)
- 20 Police Inspectors
- 35 Police Sub-Inspectors
- 740 police personnel
- 850 Home Guard and Gram Rakshak Dal (GRD) members
- 40 vehicles and 40 videographers
- 23 dedicated She-Teams focusing on women’s safety
This well-structured deployment reflects the seriousness with which the administration is handling security during the festivities.
Four-Tier Security System
The new security plan for Navratri will be executed through a four-tier system:
- Intensive Patrolling
Police vehicles, PCR vans under Dial 112, and bike patrol units will maintain a constant presence around all garba venues, food courts, and entertainment hubs. This is aimed at ensuring quick response in case of emergencies and preventing any law-and-order issues. - She-Teams for Women’s Safety
Special She-Teams comprising plainclothes women officers will be deployed across different venues. These teams will patrol in private vehicles equipped with cameras, breath analysers, and torches. Their mission is to prevent incidents of harassment, molestation, or misbehavior, especially in less crowded or dark areas. - Traffic Regulation
With thousands of vehicles expected each night, traffic police and brigade teams will regulate parking and vehicular movement. A special drive will also be conducted against vehicles using illegal tinted glass. The cyber cell will monitor live traffic data using Google Maps and heat maps, allowing quick redirection of vehicles to avoid congestion. - Social Media Monitoring
A dedicated team will continuously monitor social media platforms for rumors, misinformation, or inflammatory content that could disturb communal harmony. Quick countermeasures will be taken to prevent the spread of such content.
Also read: Gujarat Weather News: Heavy Rainfall Likely During Navratri, Warns Weather Expert Ambalal Patel
Mega Mock Drill
To ensure preparedness for emergencies, Ahmedabad Rural Police recently conducted a mega mock drill in collaboration with the fire brigade and 108 emergency medical services. The exercise was staged at 17 major commercial Navratri venues, including Changodar, Sanand, Vivekanand Nagar, and Bopal.
The drill tested readiness against potential crises such as fire accidents, power failures, stampedes, and medical emergencies. Organizers, event managers, and private security staff received training on emergency communication systems and CPR techniques.
Additionally, every garba venue will feature a dedicated police help desk. Emergency numbers will be prominently displayed on banners for easy access to assistance.
Public Appeal by Police
Authorities have also issued an appeal to the public and event organizers to ensure full cooperation in implementing the security plan for Navratri. Key instructions include:
- Installing CCTV cameras at venues
- Following fire safety rules
- Reporting suspicious activities or objects immediately
- Avoiding traffic violations and following parking regulations
- Not spreading or believing in rumors
By working together, the police and the community aim to make this year’s Navratri celebrations safe, secure, and memorable for everyone.
Extending festive greetings, Ahmedabad Rural Police emphasized that public participation and awareness are crucial in the success of the Safe Navratri campaign.
