Lucknow: Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated with immense devotion in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is a major festival marked by the installation of Lord Ganesha idols, vibrant processions, and community gatherings. To ensure the safety and smooth conduct of these festivities from August 27 to September 6, 2025, the Lucknow Police have implemented a comprehensive security and traffic management plan.
Comprehensive Security Arrangements
The Lucknow Police have prioritized a multi-layered security strategy to manage the large gatherings, pandal installations, and immersion processions. Key measures include:
Deployment of Personnel: While specific numbers for Lucknow’s police deployment are not publicly detailed, the scale of arrangements for other festivals suggests a significant allocation of manpower. Police personnel, including constables, sub-inspectors, and senior officers, are likely stationed at major pandals, such as the prominent Jhulelal Park pandal. Specialized units like Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and riot control units are also kept on standby. In addition, there will be the deployment of plainclothes officers to ensure women’s safety and to monitor for any suspicious activity. The DGP’s directive for other festivals emphasizes that reserve police and PAC units will remain on standby at district headquarters.
CCTV and Drone Surveillance: The installation of CCTV cameras at pandal venues and along procession routes is a mandatory requirement. In Lucknow, key pandals and high-traffic areas are equipped with CCTV systems to monitor crowds and deter untoward incidents. Organizers are typically required to display contact details and ensure round-the-clock security. Furthermore, the UP DGP has mandated the use of drones for aerial surveillance of processions, a proactive measure to enhance security and crowd management.
Crowd and Traffic Management: The Lucknow Traffic Police have implemented a detailed traffic management plan to minimize congestion. From August 27 to September 5, 2025, specific diversions have been enforced on key routes like Ayodhya Road and Sitapur Road, redirecting vehicles to ensure a smooth flow during processions. Commuters are urged to use alternative routes, and an emergency contact number (9454405155) has been provided for assistance. Processions are closely monitored to prevent overcrowding and ensure safe movement.
Pandal and Procession Regulations: Organizers must obtain prior permission from the police, municipal authorities, fire departments, and electricity boards. Pandals like the one at Jhulelal Park are subject to strict safety protocols, including fire safety measures. The use of DJ systems is banned, and loudspeakers are restricted between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. to minimize noise pollution. Provocative slogans or acts during processions are prohibited to maintain communal harmony. Furthermore, the UP Police have a standing directive to not permit any new festival traditions without prior approval, which helps to mitigate potential disputes.
Collaboration and Community Engagement
The Lucknow Police work closely with pandal organizers and Ganesh mandals to ensure compliance with safety guidelines. Organizers are required to register with local police stations, providing details of committee members. They must also deploy volunteers to assist with crowd control and security. The police also engage with the community through peace committee meetings to foster cooperation and urge devotees to follow guidelines for a peaceful festival. This collaborative approach helps maintain order and communal harmony.
Proactive Measures
To address potential challenges, the Lucknow Police have implemented several proactive measures:
- Social Media Monitoring: Social media cells are active, monitoring platforms for any misinformation or inflammatory content that could disrupt communal harmony.
- Preventive Action: Lists of anti-social or communal elements are updated, and preventive measures are taken as required.
- Surprise Checks: Surprise checks for illegal weapons and explosives trafficking are conducted at permanent and temporary checkpoints.
- Tenant Verification: Verification drives are undertaken in residential colonies to deter potential security threats.
These measures, in line with directives from the UP DGP for other major festivals, ensure a well-coordinated and secure environment for Ganesh Chaturthi.
