Kanwar yatra: QRTs set up, sensitive points in Ghaziabad secured

The Ghaziabad police on Monday roped in several quick response teams (QRTs) to keep a check on any disruptive activities during the passage of Kanwarias through

The Ghaziabad police on Monday roped in several quick response teams (QRTs) to keep a check on any disruptive activities during the passage of Kanwarias through the sensitive western UP region.

Officials said the QRTs would be deployed round-the-clock in both rural and urban areas and will also move around in the sensitive areas of Loni, Farrukh Nagar, Meerut Crossing and Modi Nagar. (Sakib Ali/HT Photo)

Officials said the QRTs would be deployed round-the-clock in both rural and urban areas and will also move around in the sensitive areas of Loni, Farrukh Nagar, Meerut Crossing, Modi Nagar, etc.

“All personnel will don black commando uniforms and will be equipped with modern weapons. Although there are no specific inputs, we are still keeping a close watch in light of recent events. We have also deployed special teams to secure the under-construction Haj House near river Hindon and a round-the-clock security cover will be provided till the Kanwar yatra is over,” said Salmantaj Patil, superintendent of police (city).

“We are in touch with the respective college administrations in this connection,” the SP added.

To further enhance security, officials have also marked the old Dudheshwar Nath Mahadev Temple in Ghaziabad as a secured zone with heavy deployment of police and door-framed metal detectors installed at all entry and exit points. The temple is thronged by lakhs of Kanwarias to offer Ganga water to Lord Shiva.

“We have also come up with nearly 40 watchtowers, including 21 within the city limits, which will be manned by police personnel with the required weapons and communication equipment. We have also asked all concerned station house officers to keep a close watch on the kanwar route from 3am to 8am, which is a sensitive time,” the SP added.

Apart from the QRTs and other security arrangements, the police have also roped in bomb-disposal and dog squads to check Kanwaria camps on the highway.