Visible policing intensified across markets, crowded zones and sensitive areas to strengthen safety for devotees, tourists and residents
GTNS
SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 , PURI — With the festive season approaching, Puri Police has intensified visible security measures across the city through special evening foot patrols aimed at maintaining public order and strengthening the safety of devotees, tourists, traders and local residents.
The patrol was conducted under the leadership of Puri Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh and City Deputy Superintendent of Police Rashmiranjan Mahapatra, along with Inspectors-in-Charge and police personnel from different police stations.
Police teams moved through key locations, market areas, puja mandaps, crowded stretches and areas identified as vulnerable to unlawful or anti-social activities. The exercise also involved a direct assessment of security arrangements at locations expected to witness increased public movement during the festive period.
Beyond routine patrolling, police officers interacted with residents, shopkeepers, devotees and visitors to understand local security concerns. Such direct engagement is intended to help police identify emerging issues and improve coordination with the public during periods of heavy footfall.
Particular attention is being given to suspicious activities, snatching incidents, anti-social behaviour and illegal drug-related activity. Members of the public were also advised to promptly inform police about suspicious movements or incidents requiring intervention.
Festive security planning in Puri is expected to cover several interconnected areas, including crowd management, traffic regulation, protection of women and children, prevention of street-level crime and action against narcotics-related activities.
The increased foot presence also comes amid wider preparations by Odisha Police for the festive season. The state police has announced a special ‘Daman’ drive from September 21 to 30, with surveillance of habitual criminals and anti-social elements, preventive action, raids and enforcement against illegal liquor, drugs, illegal arms and explosives among its stated priorities.
For Puri, where religious tourism and seasonal gatherings can significantly increase movement across the city, sustained ground-level policing remains an important part of maintaining a peaceful environment. The latest patrol therefore combines security surveillance with public interaction and advance preparation for the coming festival period.
Global Times News | INDIA ; GTNS NEWS DESK
SEPTEMBER 19, 2026