SHIMLA — Ahead of the festival of lights, Himachal Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Tewari has ordered comprehensive statewide security and fire safety arrangements to ensure a peaceful and incident-free Diwali.
With markets expected to witness heavy footfall during peak evening hours, the police department and fire services have ramped up vigilance across vulnerable locations, crowded shopping complexes, and densely populated residential areas.
Preparedness Measures
Strategic Deployments: Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and fire tenders are being stationed near high-risk and crowded areas for immediate intervention.
High Alert for Fire Services: All fire stations across the state are operating on high alert, equipped with functional machinery, adequate water reserves, and standby personnel for immediate reinforcements.
Seamless Coordination: Fire control rooms have established round-the-clock coordination with the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112), district police control rooms, and local health authorities.
Preventive Inspections: Authorities have initiated safety checks on electrical decorations and firecracker stalls, alongside drives to raise public awareness regarding safe bursting practices and unhindered lanes for emergency vehicles.
Emphasizing the proactive approach of the administration, DGP Tewari stated, “The success of our preparedness will be measured not merely by how quickly we respond to emergencies, but by how effectively we prevent them. Even a minor lapse in a crowded locality can have serious consequences.”
Appeal to Citizens
The DGP has urged traders, market associations, and residents to exercise utmost caution and adhere strictly to safety protocols. Citizens have been reminded to dial 112 immediately in case of any emergency or untoward incident.
The Himachal Pradesh Police, alongside the Fire Services and district administration, remains on round-the-clock duty to ensure a safe and secure celebration for every family across the state.
