Security boost ahead of basilica fest

The 436th edition of the feast festival is all set to begin with the flag hoisting on Thursday. A large number of devotees is expected to turn up for the festival. To prevent crimes during the 11-day festival, which ends on August 5, a total of 66 closed circuit television cameras have been installed at various spots. As many as 500 police personnel have been deployed to monitor the events and to regulate traffic during the festival. Besides, four special police outposts have been put in place near the basilica, Superintendent of Police Murali Rambha told DT Next on Wednesday. 

Boxes have been kept in these outposts and using them, devotees may submit letters regarding any complaints or offering suggestions. The SP said watch towers have been erected in the areas surrounding the basilica to detect the movement of mischief mongers. The personnel deployed to man the towers would monitor the movement of people using binoculars. 

Raised platforms, which would help the police check any incident of chain snatching, have been installed on a temporary basis at 25 locations. Eight teams have been deputed for detection and prevention of crime. With the aid of the public address system, announcements would be made at frequent intervals to urge the devotees to be safe while entering and leaving the shrine, the SP said.