E-Paper
10th Muharram: Security beefed up in Lucknow for Ashura
The police and district administration are geared up for Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, falling on Tuesday
The police and district administration are geared up for Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, falling on Tuesday. Other than the deployment of drones, more than 3,500 police personnel, mobile patrolling squads, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been deployed in the sensitive areas of the state capital.
Also, a special social media surveillance cell has been formed to counter rumour-mongering. “We have divided the entire city into five zones and 18 sectors to man sensitive areas in an effective manner,” said S Chinappa, Lucknow deputy commissioner of police (DCP), west.
Another senior police official said over 2,500 non-gazetted police personnel from inspector to constable ranks are deployed only in the Old city. “Other than civil police officers and personnel, PAC and RAF have been deployed to avert any trouble in the area,” he said.
He said close circuit television (CCTv) cameras have been installed along different routes, while some police personnel will be equipped with bodycams to keep watch on every activity during the procession. Besides, drones will keep an aerial vigil on the entire area. Also, motorcycle mobile units will patrol the entire Old City to ensure peace during Muharram, he added.
The official said religious leaders of both communities and other influential people have been asked to remain connected with senior authorities in case of any rumour-mongering and trouble. He said the administration will keep sharing every development during this period so that people don’t get misled by rumour mongers.
