Varanasi: With the proposed Indian Air Force air show scheduled for Oct 22, 23 and 25 over the Ganga, officials in Varanasi and Chandauli are stepping up preparations to manage an estimated 10 to 20 lakh spectators each day. Authorities are focusing on creating major parking zones, particularly in the trans-Ganga areas, while finalising crowd-control, traffic and security arrangements.On Tuesday, Chandauli DM Chandra Mohan Garg and SP Akash Patel, along with revenue, police and traffic officials, inspected the stretch from Padao towards the sand bed of the Ganga. They discussed barricading, holding areas and plans to accommodate crowds. The officials also reviewed access routes, potential parking sites and points where spectators could be safely channelled towards viewing areas.Earlier, Varanasi police commissioner Mohit Agarwal inspected Padao crossing, Ramnagar bypass, Tengra Mor, Domari Ganga Ghat and Kodopur Ghat to assess security, traffic and crowd-management arrangements for what is being planned as one of the country’s biggest air shows.The event is expected to feature various aircraft of the armed forces performing aerial manoeuvres for around 90 minutes over the river.Officials said arrangements are being drawn up for nearly 30 lakh spectators on both banks of the Ganga. The commissioner directed officers to ensure separate entry and exit points, pedestrian corridors, queue management, barricading and adequate deployment at pressure points. Parking will be regulated at identified sites on both sides of the river to prevent haphazard vehicle movement.Traffic diversions, alternative routes and emergency exits are to be finalised in advance. Continuous surveillance through CCTV cameras, drones and other technical resources will be maintained, while quick-response teams will be positioned at sensitive and high-footfall locations.Departments have been asked to review preparations again and conduct mock drills before the show as scheduled.
