Mysuru city police have announced a series of stringent restrictions for the much-anticipated Jamboo Savari and Torch Light Parade, both integral parts of the Dasara festivities scheduled for Thursday.
These enhanced security measures are a direct response to recent unfortunate stampedes, particularly the one in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on September 27th, which tragically claimed 41 lives.
Authorities are also citing the stampede during the Royal Challengers Bangalore’s victory celebrations in Bengaluru this past June, where 11 people died, as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by large gatherings and the critical need for robust crowd management protocols.
Consequently, access to the venues for both the Jamboo Savari and the Torch Light Parade will be exclusively granted to individuals possessing valid passes.
The police are advising all visitors to utilize only designated parking areas. Additionally, public attention has been drawn to the risky practice of watching the events from rooftops, which has been identified as a significant safety concern.
Following expert recommendations, climbing onto the rooftops of buildings along the procession route is now strictly forbidden, especially for structures identified as being in a dilapidated state. Ahead of the festival, city police, in collaboration with heritage experts, inspected historical buildings and cordoned off those deemed unsafe.
Commissioner of Police Seema Latkar has strongly urged the public to cooperate with security personnel, emphasizing that these measures are purely precautionary and designed to prevent any untoward incidents.
This year’s Dasara celebrations have already seen unusual security arrangements, notably due to opposition from the BJP regarding the invitation extended to writer and International Booker Prize winner, Banu Mushtaq, to inaugurate the festival. To bolster security, a unit of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) conducted route marches, and the police force has been augmented with 35 KSRP platoons, 15 CAR/DAR platoons, 29 Anti-Sabotage Check teams, and 1,200 Home Guards.
For improved crowd management during the procession, 33 public address systems, manned by civil police officers, will be strategically placed. These systems will be located at all palace entrances, K.R. Circle, Ayurvedic College and Hospital Circle, RMC Circle, Highway Circle, and all gates of the Bannimantap Grounds, as confirmed by officials.