Surveillance in place to counter sabotage, rumors, and untoward incidents; divers on standby for immersion rituals.
The Bangladesh Coast Guard has strengthened security in coastal and riverine areas, including Chittagong, for the Sharadiya Durga Puja festival. Special surveillance is being maintained to ensure the safety of Puja mandaps (pavilions) and religious sites, prevent communal incitement and the spread of rumors, and address any untoward incidents. Furthermore, precautionary measures and rescue preparations have been put in place to prevent potential maritime accidents during the immersion of idols.
According to the Coast Guard, personnel have been deployed across various areas under the force’s jurisdiction for the Durga Puja festival. On October 15, Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujan, a media officer for the Coast Guard, stated that a total of 3,400 personnel are being deployed to ensure security during the festival. Of these, the East Zone (Chittagong) will be responsible for the security of 63 temples and Puja mandaps. In total, plans have been made to secure 615 temples and Puja mandaps across the force’s four operational zones in the country.
As part of these security operations, surveillance has been intensified not only around Puja mandaps and critical infrastructure but also along coastal and river routes. Personnel have been instructed to remain vigilant against any acts of sabotage, communal incitement, or other unforeseen situations.
Special caution is being exercised in areas near rivers and water bodies in connection with the immersion of idols. Emphasis has been placed on preventing vessels from carrying excess passengers, ensuring the use of life jackets, and raising awareness regarding the safety of individuals who cannot swim. Specialized Coast Guard dive teams will remain on standby to conduct rapid rescue operations in the event of a boat capsize or any other accident at immersion sites.
The Coast Guard stated that its personnel are working to ensure public safety during this religious festival. They are also coordinating with other law enforcement agencies to maintain a peaceful environment for the celebrations.
Meanwhile, the Coast Guard has urged the public to report any suspicious activities or security risks observed during the festival to the relevant authorities. For emergency assistance, the public can contact the force’s hotline at 16111. It has been stated that these security measures by the Coast Guard—aimed at maintaining religious harmony, ensuring the safe movement of worshippers, and preventing accidents during idol immersion—will continue until the immersion process is complete.
