What Security Measures Are in Place for Navratri in Gujarat?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced security measures for Navratri celebrations.
- Focus on women’s safety with dedicated teams.
- Traffic management strategies to ease congestion.
- Police response teams ready for emergencies.
- Community engagement through self-help groups.
Gandhinagar, Sep 22 (NationPress) The Gujarat Director General of Police (DGP) Vikas Sahay conducted a video conference with police commissioners, district police chiefs, and range IGs to evaluate security preparations statewide for Navratri, which commenced on Monday.
The DGP instructed officials to focus on four critical areas: law and order, women’s safety, traffic management, and police response and behavior.
To enhance security, 16 additional SRP (State Reserve Police) companies and two State Action Force units have been deployed. Foot and vehicle patrolling will be intensified, especially in sensitive and isolated areas.
For women’s safety, ‘She Teams’ will be present at garba venues and crowded locations in traditional attire to conduct discreet surveillance and deter harassment. Citizens can also seek immediate help through the ‘Jan Rakshak 112’ helpline.
Concerning traffic management, police have been directed to remain vigilant to prevent congestion during the festive rush, with additional personnel assigned to ensure a smooth flow. Control rooms will be fortified, senior officers will be on-site, and quick-response teams will be prepared for emergencies.
DGP Sahay emphasized that police conduct must foster confidence, ensuring that citizens feel secure while enjoying late-night festivities.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the Vibrant Navratri Mahotsav 2025 at GMDC Ground in Ahmedabad with a spectacular cultural showcase themed ‘Aahwan Ma Aadyashakti’, featuring performances by over 1,000 artists. The opening ceremony was attended by Tourism and Culture Minister Mulubhai Bera, Ministers Jagdish Vishwakarma and Kunwarjibhai Halpati, Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibhaben Jain, and other dignitaries.
Extending Navratri wishes, the Chief Minister stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of next-gen GST reforms on the festival's first day would transform this year’s Navratri and Diwali into a celebration of both joy and savings. He also encouraged people to embrace Atmanirbhar Bharat by selecting indigenous products—from clothing and jewelry to cosmetics—for their festive celebrations.
Ahead of the inauguration, Patel visited thematic exhibitions focused on Nav Sankalp, photo zones, a kids’ city, food courts, and handicraft markets while engaging with women from self-help groups. He also unveiled a multimedia exhibition organized by the Central Bureau of Communication themed ‘11 Years of Good Governance’.