300+ CCTV Cameras, Drones to Keep Vigil During Mandi International Maha Shivratri

Over 300 CCTV cameras, drone surveillance and 750 police personnel will be deployed to ensure security during the weeklong International Maha Shivratri festival beginning February 16 in Mandi.

Mandi: With more than 300 CCTV cameras installed across key locations, the police have strengthened surveillance arrangements for the weeklong International Maha Shivratri festival, beginning February 16 in Mandi town.

The district police have rolled out a comprehensive security and traffic management plan to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the festival, which attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from across Himachal Pradesh and other states.

Enhanced Surveillance Measures

This year, surveillance has been significantly intensified, with 270 permanent and 46 temporary CCTV cameras installed across core areas of the town. In addition, drone cameras will be deployed to monitor large gatherings and sensitive spots in real time.

For better coordination and quick response, the town has been divided into four major security sectors and 10 sub-sectors.

Heavy Police Deployment

Around 750 police officers and personnel will be deployed at strategic locations, including:

• Seri Stage
• Paddal Ground
• Temple complexes
• Market areas
• Jaleb procession route
• Main bus stand

Additional reserve forces will remain on standby to tackle any emergency situation.

Checkposts and Screening

Temporary checkposts will be established at key entry points such as Talyar, Khaliyar, Bindravani and near Hotel Valley View. Vehicles and suspicious individuals will be subjected to thorough checks.

Visitors entering fairgrounds will undergo bag screening, and metal detectors will be used to prevent prohibited items from being brought inside.

Focus on Women’s Safety

Special emphasis has been placed on women’s safety. Women police personnel, anti-eve-teasing squads and plainclothes officers will be deployed in crowded areas. A lost-and-found centre will also be set up to assist children and senior citizens during the celebrations.

Traffic Management Plan

Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar said traffic arrangements had been streamlined with designated diversions and parking plans to prevent congestion.

Illegal parking will be dealt with strictly, while heavy vehicles — except buses — will be allowed entry only during specified hours.

Authorities have appealed to residents and visitors to cooperate with security personnel and adhere to traffic advisories to ensure the traditional Shivratri celebrations conclude peacefully.

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