Over 22,000 police officers will oversee security for the 147th annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Ahmedabad on July 7. This large-scale event, expected to attract thousands of devotees, will be closely monitored following recent safety concerns. Ahmedabad’s Commissioner of Police, GS Malik, announced plans to enhance crowd management, citing the tragic stampede in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh.
Measures include the use of face detection cameras to identify potential threats by cross-referencing with databases. Additionally, 20 drones and balloon-mounted cameras will surveil the event’s 16-kilometer route and key locations. The security detail comprises personnel from the regular police force, Home Guards, Central Armed Police Forces like BSF and Rapid Action Force, and State Reserve Police, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the festivities.