Durga Puja / DJ Vehicles Banned During Durga Puja Immersion Processions in Bhubaneswar; Violators to Face Criminal Cases

Bhubaneswar, Oct 20: The Commissionerate Police has banned DJ vehicles during Durga Puja immersion processions in Bhubaneswar and warned that violators will face criminal cases. The police have also deployed 48 platoons of force and around 100 officers to ensure security during the immersion processions, Bhubaneswar DCP Saravana Vivek said on Tuesday.

The police have granted permission for 'Ravan Podi' celebrations at nine locations in the city, with fire safety measures and crowd management arrangements mandated at each venue.

Strict Action Against DJ Vehicles
The police have held meetings with various puja committees and organisers at the Police Commissioner level, while Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) have also conducted meetings across different zones.

Organisers have been clearly instructed that DJ vehicles will not be permitted under any circumstances during immersion processions. Traditional musical instruments may be used, while sound systems must comply with prescribed regulations.

The use of music after 10 pm is restricted under noise pollution rules. Following complaints about DJs operating beyond the permitted hours during last year's immersion processions, police have directed all station in-charges and zonal ACPs to ensure strict enforcement.

Police personnel will monitor vehicles before they leave puja pandals, and legal action will be initiated immediately in case of violations.

Also Read: Odisha Fire Services Rescue Devotee With Breathing Difficulties at Saheed Nagar Durga Puja Pandal

Ravan Podi At Nine Locations
The police have permitted 'Ravan Podi' celebrations at nine locations, subject to safety guidelines. Organisers must maintain a minimum distance of 100 metres in all directions from the event site and comply with safety requirements concerning storage facilities and firewalls.

Fire Services teams and electricity department personnel will be deployed at each venue. Only authorised and safe fireworks may be used during the celebrations, while sturdy barricades must be installed to control crowds.

Police personnel and fire services teams will remain on standby to respond to emergencies.

Six Temporary Immersion Points Arranged
For Durga Puja immersion, temporary arrangements have been made at six locations across the city and its outskirts.

These include three locations near the Kuakhai River, two near the Daya River and one in the Chandaka area.

The police have urged all puja committees and organisers to complete immersion processions promptly and cooperate with security personnel. They have appealed to organisers to follow administrative guidelines to ensure that both immersion ceremonies and Ravan Podi celebrations conclude peacefully.