Faridabad: The 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela is set to begin on February 7, and the Haryana government has issued security guidelines to ensure a smooth event.
Around 2,400 police personnel will be deployed for security, ensuring strict surveillance at the venue.
Additionally, the use of drones by the general public within a 5-kilometer radius of the fairgrounds is strictly prohibited, except for police personnel on duty.
Comprehensive Security Arrangements
To prevent overcrowding and chaos, police officers will monitor gatherings and disperse large crowds when necessary.
Additional police forces from other districts will also be deployed to strengthen security. Among the 2,400 personnel, 400 officers will be dedicated to VIP security, working in two shifts – 200 during the day and 200 at night.
The remaining 2,000 police officers will oversee the general security of the fairgrounds.
Police checkpoints will be set up at entry and exit points to monitor vehicles and visitors. Security measures include metal detectors, bag scanners, and stringent frisking protocols at the five designated entry gates.
Crowd Management and Surveillance
The 17-day-long Surajkund Mela is expected to host artisans from across India and abroad, along with international guests. Authorities anticipate a footfall of over 2 million visitors.
To enhance surveillance, more than 300 CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the fairgrounds.
Additionally, over 20 watchtowers will be manned by sharp shooters, who will monitor the venue using binoculars from elevated platforms.
Preparations in Full Swing
The fairgrounds, nestled in the scenic Aravalli hills, are undergoing final touches. The thatched roofs of huts have been artistically decorated, and walls have been coated with clay and cow dung for an authentic rural ambiance.
Night-time lighting arrangements have also been completed to ensure a comfortable experience for visitors.
Section 163 Enforced for Safety
Given the large-scale gathering, Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code, 2023, has been enforced to prevent any untoward incidents. Surajkund Mela has been declared a temporary security zone, and visitors are strictly prohibited from carrying weapons or any hazardous materials.
Violation of these rules could lead to legal action under Section 223 and other applicable laws.
Sanitation and Cleanliness Measures
To maintain cleanliness around Surajkund Mela, the Municipal Corporation of Faridabad has assigned 14 inspectors and 200 sanitation workers.
Officials have been instructed to ensure a clean and hygienic environment throughout the event.
Police Commissioner Reviews Security Arrangements
Police Commissioner Satendra Kumar Gupta conducted a security inspection of the fairgrounds, including VIP enclosures, gates, and parking zones.
He issued specific guidelines to ensure flawless security management. The inspection was attended by senior police officials, including Deputy Commissioners Abhishek Jorwal, Kuldeep Singh, and Jasleen Kaur.
Haryana Government Extends Invitations to Dignitaries
Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma has formally invited Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and other cabinet ministers to attend the 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela.
Several dignitaries, including Krishna Lal Panwar, Rao Narbir Singh, Vipul Goel, and Ranbir Gangwa, have also been invited.
With enhanced security, cultural vibrancy, and international participation, this year’s Surajkund Mela promises to be a grand spectacle for visitors.
