Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: As Jharkhand prepares for the grand festivities of Durga Puja 2024, a total of 5277 pandals have been set up across the state. According to a Jharkhand Police report, 2346 pandals have received licenses, while 2931 pandals remain unlicensed, reflecting the widespread participation in the festival. The police have stepped up security to maintain law and order during the celebrations, with special attention given to high-traffic areas and sensitive locations.
The Durga Puja festivities are set to begin on October 3, with all districts of Jharkhand readying themselves for large-scale celebrations. Jamshedpur has the highest number of licensed pandals, with 408, while Garhwa tops the chart for unlicensed pandals with 640.
Comprehensive Security Measures
In preparation for Durga Puja, Jharkhand Police have implemented rigorous security measures to ensure smooth celebrations across the state. A report from the police department highlighted the deployment of additional personnel and equipment, including:
- 9,217 jammers
- 15,236 CCTV cameras
These measures have been put in place to monitor key locations, prevent any unlawful activities, and maintain public safety during the event.
Chief Secretary’s Meeting and Instructions
To further bolster security, Jharkhand Chief Secretary L. Khiangte chaired a high-level meeting with top police officials, including the state’s senior security officers, in Ranchi. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need for effective coordination between local police stations and community leaders. He directed police officers to organize peace committee meetings and involve local dignitaries to ensure communal harmony and law and order throughout the festivities.
District-Wise Breakdown of Licensed and Unlicensed Pandals
| District | Licensed Pandals | Unlicensed Pandals |
|---|---|---|
| Ranchi | 130 | 277 |
| Khunti | 33 | 28 |
| Simdega | 31 | 19 |
| Gumla | 49 | 40 |
| Jamshedpur | 408 | 128 |
| Chaibasa | 97 | 10 |
| Seraikela | 89 | 97 |
| Bokaro | 147 | 177 |
| Dhanbad | 241 | 105 |
| Ramgarh | 81 | 59 |
| Hazaribagh | 163 | 54 |
| Chatra | 71 | 119 |
| Giridih | 120 | 80 |
| Koderma | 57 | 16 |
| Latehar | 67 | 54 |
| Palamu | 96 | 454 |
| Garhwa | 27 | 640 |
| Deoghar | 46 | 149 |
| Jamtara | 74 | 59 |
| Dumka | 101 | 115 |
| Godda | 34 | 64 |
| Sahebganj | 48 | 60 |
| Pakur | 45 | 72 |
Key Locations to be Monitored
The districts of Ranchi, Jamshedpur, and Dhanbad are expected to host some of the most significant and high-profile celebrations, with large pandals attracting thousands of visitors daily. Garhwa, which has the highest number of unlicensed pandals, will be under strict surveillance to prevent any potential mishaps.
Public Cooperation and Festival Spirit
The Jharkhand Police have urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activities to ensure a peaceful and joyous festival. The local administration and security forces are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur, while prioritizing the safety and well-being of everyone involved.
With the state’s vibrant cultural heritage on full display, Jharkhand is poised for a spectacular Durga Puja, blending devotion with festivity under the watchful eyes of a prepared and alert security apparatus.
