Meerut: Amidst tight security measures, the Shivratri celebrations in Meerut saw thousands of devotees performing the sacred ritual of Jalabhishek under the vigilant eyes of the local police and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The event, which took place at various temples across the city, was marked by heightened security protocols, including the use of drones to monitor the crowds and ensure the safety of all participants.
Shivratri, a significant festival in the Hindu calendar, attracts millions of devotees who offer water (Jal) to Lord Shiva’s Shivalingas as a mark of their devotion. In Meerut, this year’s celebrations were no different, with a large number of Kanwariyas, or devotees carrying holy water from the Ganges, converging at local temples for the ritualistic Jalabhishek.
The security arrangements for the event were nothing short of meticulous. The Meerut Police, left no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and smooth conduct of the celebrations. SSP Dr. Vipin Tada, who personally oversaw the security arrangements, highlighted the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment during such large gatherings.
“Given the significance of Shivratri and the large number of devotees expected, we had to ensure that every possible security measure was in place. Our teams were stationed at key locations, and we employed advanced surveillance techniques to monitor the situation continuously,” said SSP Tada.
One of the standout features of this year’s security protocol was the use of drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles were deployed to provide real-time aerial footage of the crowds and the surrounding areas. The drone surveillance not only helped in crowd management but also acted as a deterrent against any potential untoward incidents.
“Drone surveillance allowed us to keep an eye on the entire area from above. It provided us with a comprehensive view of the crowd dynamics and helped us quickly identify and respond to any issues,” explained an official involved in the operations.
Adding a personal touch to the official duties, SSP Dr. Vipin Tada, along with his family, participated in the Jalabhishek ceremony. The SSP, who has been known for his community-oriented approach, performed the ritual at one of the city’s prominent temples, reinforcing the cultural and religious significance of the festival.
Thanks to the stringent security measures, the Shivratri celebrations in Meerut proceeded without any major incidents. Devotees were able to perform the Jalabhishek and other rituals in a peaceful and organized manner. The local administration’s efforts were widely appreciated by the public, who felt reassured by the visible presence of security personnel and the use of advanced surveillance techniques.
The devotees expressed their gratitude for the seamless arrangements. Many highlighted the efficiency of the security personnel and the importance of the drone surveillance in maintaining a safe environment.
“I have been coming here for the past five years, and this time the arrangements were exceptional. The police did a commendable job, said Ramesh Kumar, a devotee from the neighboring district.
