Ganga Sagar Mela security boosted with ISRO tech, 15,000 police, drones amid Bangladesh tensions

The Ganga Sagar Mela, a major religious gathering in West Bengal, will begin on January 8, and the state government has implemented comprehensive security measures to ensure the safety of millions of pilgrims expected to attend. This year, in response to rising regional security concerns, particularly due to unrest in Bangladesh, the state is taking additional precautions. For the first time, satellite and GPS tracking systems, provided by ISRO, will be used to monitor all forms of transport, including buses, vessels, and launches, used by pilgrims to reach the event. This technology will ensure real-time tracking, even if there are issues with internet or GPS connectivity.

In terms of physical security, around 15,000 police officers will be deployed across the venue. Specialized units will be tasked with specific duties: Women’s Safety Teams will focus on the safety of female pilgrims, Quick Response Teams (QRTs) will handle emergency situations, and Traffic Management Units will ensure smooth movement around the Mela area. A bomb disposal squad will also be stationed to handle any potential threats. To ensure continuous surveillance, over 500 CCTV cameras will be set up, alongside drones that will monitor the area from the air. Plainclothes officers will be stationed at various points to blend into the crowd and act quickly in case of any incidents.

Additionally, the Indian Coast Guard and Border Security Force (BSF) have been placed on high alert for the Mela. The Coast Guard will monitor water routes using small vessels, hovercrafts, and helicopters to oversee the safety of pilgrims traveling by water. The BSF will provide additional security along the borders and coastal areas, ensuring a coordinated response across multiple fronts. Security teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) will also be deployed to assist in managing any potential emergencies.

In an effort to prevent disruptions, a fishing ban will be in place from January 10 to 15 in the area around Ganga Sagar. The ban aims to ensure the safety of the waterways and minimize potential conflicts during the Mela. The state government has also called for the involvement of civil defense units to provide additional assistance during the event. These measures reflect a coordinated and multi-tiered approach to security, prioritizing the safety of the millions of devotees expected to visit Ganga Sagar for the Mela.