Agartala |  Tripura Police will deploy more than 10,000 personnel for Durga Puja security this year, with enhanced surveillance, additional patrol teams and a dedicated green corridor planned for emergency vehicles to ensure smooth traffic movement and public safety during the festivities.

Director General of Police (in-charge) G S Rao announced the security measures at a press conference on October 8, attended by senior police officials and Superintendents of Police from all eight districts. He said the deployment of police and Tripura State Rifles (TSR) personnel would be increased compared with last year.

A total of 2,905 Durga Puja celebrations have been registered across the state so far, against 2,928 in 2025. The number could rise further as additional applications are received, Rao said. Police plan to install around 180 additional CCTV cameras and set up 169 watchtowers at strategic locations to strengthen surveillance and crowd management. Additional vehicles will also be hired for mobile patrolling.

In Agartala, where shopping activity has intensified ahead of the festival, police have stepped up security in crowded areas. Twenty-nine additional motorcycle patrol teams have been deployed in locations witnessing heavy footfall. More women police personnel and plainclothes officers will also be deployed to prevent harassment, theft and other offences.

Green corridor for emergency services

Traffic management remains a key focus in Agartala, where around 450 Puja celebrations are expected to be held. Police have drawn up plans covering parking arrangements, no-entry zones, stopping restrictions and public transportation. A green corridor is being planned for ambulances and fire-service vehicles to ensure emergency services can move without unnecessary delays during the festive period.

No-entry restrictions in Agartala will remain in force from 5 pm to 1 am during the specified Puja period. A round-the-clock traffic control room will monitor vehicle movement and coordinate responses to emergencies. Security arrangements have also been strengthened at railway stations, with the Government Railway Police (GRP) taking additional measures.

Five extortion cases registered

Rao said police had registered five extortion cases linked to Puja-related activities so far this year, compared with two cases during the corresponding period last year. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found involved in extortion or other unlawful activities.

Police have also held meetings with Puja committees and local police stations to coordinate security deployment, volunteer support and law-and-order arrangements.

Anti-drug drive intensified

The state police have intensified their anti-drug campaign ahead of the festival, with special enforcement measures planned to prevent drug-related activities. Rao said the overall objective was to ensure that people could celebrate Durga Puja in a peaceful, safe and orderly environment.