Varanasi: Police commissioner Mohit Agarwal patrolled on foot the security arrangements at Dashashwamedh Ghat, Godaulia, Namo Ghat and Assi Ghat areas, on Tuesday. Suspicious persons were questioned and thorough review was done of security arrangements, while officers were directed to take action against those encroaching public land. He instructed officers to update regularly security equipment installed at the ghats. He directed for NDRF and Water Police to remain alert and active and boatmen to ensure 100% compliance with prescribed standards to ensure safety of devotees and tourists. The police commissioner said, “Safety of devotees, tourists and general public visiting ghats is top priority of police. The security apparatus is being strengthened further through continuous foot patrolling in ghat areas, intensive surveillance of suspicious persons and regular review of security arrangements. All officers are directed to ensure security arrangements with vigilance, effective policing and public cooperation.” Strict action was taken against those found performing stunts and dangerous acrobatics in ghat areas. All persons engaged in water recreation on the Ganga were reminded that life jackets were mandatory. Effective deep-water barricading was ensured for safety of devotees and Water Police, through periodic intensive checking drives, have so far led to registering of of 31 cases against boatmen flouting rules and 58 boats have been seized. ‘Operation Chakravyuh’ campaign against traffic rule violations and encroachment resulted in 22 vehicles being seized, 529 challans issued and a total compounding fee of Rs. 10,62,500 imposed.
