Chennai Police Launch Extensive Security Measures for Kaanum Pongal
Chennai city police have unveiled a detailed security and traffic strategy for Kaanum Pongal on January 17. The plan aims to guarantee a safe and incident-free celebration across the city.
Massive Police Deployment Across Key Locations
Authorities are mobilizing at least 16,000 police officers for the event. They will receive support from 1,500 home guards. These personnel will cover beaches, main roads, tourist attractions, parks, and shopping malls. All crowd-prone areas will see a strong police presence.
Enhanced Beach Safety Measures
To prevent drowning incidents, the police have arranged for 200 fishermen to position themselves at strategic points along the shoreline. Additionally, 85 trained swimmers from the Coastal Security Group's Anti-Drowning Unit will be on duty. Entry into the sea will remain strictly prohibited on Kaanum Pongal day. Barricades have already been installed along the shoreline. Mounted police on all-terrain vehicles will patrol the area continuously.
Surveillance and Monitoring Systems
On the Marina Promenade, police have erected 13 temporary surveillance towers between the Labour Statue and the Lighthouse. Each tower will have three personnel equipped with walkie-talkies, megaphones, and binoculars. The police will also install 13 CCTV cameras at 12 strategic locations. These camera feeds will undergo continuous monitoring.
For aerial surveillance, authorities have activated eight drone cameras. Four drones will operate over Marina Beach, and four will cover Elliot's Beach. These high-capacity drones will broadcast police warning messages along coastal areas.
Control Rooms and Emergency Services
Police plan to set up at least three temporary control rooms between the Labour Statue and Gandhi Statue. They will establish police assistance centers at the entry points of seven service roads along the Marina stretch. Eight ambulances with medical teams and two fire engines will remain on standby for emergencies.
At Besant Nagar Elliot's Beach, authorities will create a temporary control room and three surveillance towers.
Traffic Management and Safety Initiatives
City traffic police have identified long and uninterrupted road stretches to deploy special surveillance teams. These teams will focus on areas like Guindy, Adyar, Taramani, Neelankarai, Thoraipakkam, Maduravoyal Bypass Road, and GST Road. Their goal is to curb bike stunts and racing activities.
Road safety teams on two-wheelers have already started awareness campaigns among motorists. They regulate traffic at major junctions, conduct drunk-driving checks, and take action against traffic violators.
Public Appeal for Responsible Celebration
Police have made a strong appeal to the public. They urge everyone to follow safety advisories and traffic regulations. The authorities encourage citizens to celebrate Kaanum Pongal responsibly to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable festival for all.
