In preparation for the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the district administration in Patna has implemented comprehensive security and logistical arrangements at Gandhi Maidan. A total of 136 magistrates have been deployed across 77 strategic locations in and around the venue to ensure effective crowd management and maintain order during the state-level function.
Enhanced Security and Crowd Control Measures
The security framework includes the support of women's units and baton-wielding forces, organized into four distinct sectors to oversee crowd control. Additionally, the district control room will have 22 reserve magistrates on standby, operating in three shifts to address any emergent situations promptly.
Coordination and Briefing by Officials
Patna District Magistrate Thiyagarajan S M and Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikeya K Sharma conducted a joint briefing on Saturday to outline the detailed preparations. This coordination aims to streamline operations and ensure a seamless execution of the Republic Day event.
Entry and Exit Protocols for Attendees
Public entry to Gandhi Maidan will commence at 7 am, with access granted through gates 5, 6, and 7. Guests and media personnel will be allowed entry via gates 9 and 10. All attendees have been instructed to be seated by 8:30 am. Following the conclusion of the ceremony, all gates will be opened to facilitate a smooth and orderly exit for the crowd.
Advanced Surveillance and Security Infrastructure
The security arrangements feature the installation of 128 CCTV cameras, comprising 61 fixed cameras, 22 pan-tilt-zoom cameras, and 45 analytic cameras. Of these, 49 cameras will monitor the outer perimeter, while 79 will cover interior areas. The video feeds will be continuously monitored by the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) to enhance situational awareness.
Additional Security Installations
The venue has been equipped with 18 watch towers, a temporary police station, and a temporary control room to bolster security. The special branch will conduct thorough anti-sabotage checks on all vehicles and equipment before granting access to the venue, ensuring a secure environment.
Lighting and Infrastructure Preparations
Lighting arrangements include 34 towers, 136 LED metal lights, 229 pole lights, and 15 high-mast lights to illuminate the area. Teams from the electricity department and the municipal corporation will remain deployed on-site to manage and maintain these installations throughout the event.
Programme Highlights and Structural Repairs
The Republic Day programme will feature a parade by 21 contingents and 12 departmental tableaux that highlight various government schemes. Engineers from the building construction department have installed barricades and repaired boundary wall gates to ensure structural integrity and safety.
Sanitation, Medical, and Emergency Services
The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) will oversee sanitation arrangements, including the provision of mobile toilets. The public health engineering department will manage water tankers, water ATMs, and hydrants to cater to the needs of attendees.
Medical and Fire Safety Provisions
Medical arrangements include three primary health camps at the entry gates and an isolation centre located behind the main pavilion, equipped with oxygen and life-saving drugs. Two fire units will be stationed at the PIR, with additional units positioned at the main gate and VIP parking area to address any fire-related emergencies.
Traffic Management and Parking Solutions
The traffic police and the district transport officer have prepared detailed parking arrangements and alternate routes for the public to manage vehicular movement efficiently and minimize congestion during the event.
