KOCHI
: Additional CCTV cameras, parking space and watch towers are being put in place by enforcement agencies to ensure a hassle-free New Year celebration in the city.
Commissioner IG Vijay Sakhare said the entire 3,000-strong city police force would be deployed to ensure safety of residents, along with Home Guards and traffic wardens to ensure smooth traffic.
“We want residents to enjoy the occasion. Crime during celebrations are usually not the conventional kind but those committed out of sheer stupidity. Drunk driving and rave parties are illegal and we expect partygoers to abide by the law, while at the same time having an amazing time, which we would facilitate to our best abilities,” said Sakhare.
According to sources, two grounds near Cochin College will be converted to temporary parking space. “School grounds in West Kochi which used to be converted into parking space would be available this year as well. At the same time, we have arranged a vacant plot near Cochin College and the college ground for parking,” said an official with Fort
Kochi police
.
He added that special arrangements have been made for foreign tourists to have a seamless view of the burning of Pappanji. “We consider foreign tourists our guests and it is our responsibility to ensure their safety. Also, three watch towers would function near Parade Ground where the burning takes place. Over 50 CCTV cameras have been specially installed for the purpose and these will watch over the partying in areas where crowds are likely to gather,” said the official.
The city commissioner said a team of 100 personnel is already on the job as part of the ‘Drug Free New Year’ campaign . He said that history-sheeters and routine trouble makers are under observation as a precautionary measure.
“Apart from West Kochi, malls, Marine Drive and other areas where celebrations take palce would be under surveillance. Police will only interrupt illegal activities as we want city residents to enjoy the celebrations to the fullest,” Sakhare said.
Meanwhile, the Ernakulam excise division too has started a special drive to strengthen surveillance and enforcement activities in the city. Special squads have been deployed in various parts of the city including Fort Kochi, which hosts the Cochin Carnival.
Ernakulam excise deputy commissioner (DC) AS Ranjith said that a control room has been opened at the Excise Complex Kacherippady from where senior officers will coordinate the special drive over the next three days. Also, patrolling squads and the DC’s anti-narcotic special squad have started combing operations in various parts.
“Kochi is becoming more prone to narcotics trade and the rising number of cases proves it. Moreover, the accused in most of the cases have confessed to bringing the contraband from other states for the rave parties here. We have strict orders to keep the festive season peaceful. The division has already deployed its new Boleros and a Tata Hexa for patrolling activities. Our combing operations will target illegal homestays in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry that conduct liquor parties,” said Ranjith.
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