Odisha on high alert as India-Pakistan tensions escalate; security measures heightened
Odisha DGP Y.B. Khurania
BHUBANESWAR: Amid escalated confrontations between India and Pakistan,
Odisha DGP Y B Khurania
on Friday said the state is on high alert mode, though no specific threats have been identified.
'Even though we have not received any specific threat alerts for Odisha, we increased our vigilance as a precautionary measure,' Khurania told TOI.
Security sources indicate that police personnel were deployed at key installations, including the Puri Jagannath temple, defence establishments, and other potentially sensitive locations across the state. The coastal areas of Odisha, which span over 480 kilometres, are under particularly careful surveillance, according to DGP Khurania.
District superintendents were directed to increase patrolling in major cities and sensitive areas.
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Security forces are implementing thorough inspections at railway stations, bus terminals, shopping centres, and religious venues. Crowded markets and tourist spots are receiving particular attention.
Puri SP, Vinit Agrawal, confirmed heightened alertness amongst security personnel at the Jagannath temple. 'We briefed our personnel to remain extremely alert. Entry point checks are being conducted thoroughly.
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Staff received instructions to prevent drone flights over the temple,' Agrawal said.
Police authorities assessed security protocols at defence establishments, including the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Proof and Experimental Establishment (PXE), Military Engineering Service (MES) in Balasore district, and the missile launching complex at Wheeler Island near Bhadrak district coast.
Local police stations were instructed to maintain heightened awareness and increase patrolling in their respective jurisdictions.
Intelligence units also intensified their information-gathering operations to monitor any suspicious activities.
The state police headquarters established a special control room to coordinate security operations and respond swiftly to any emerging situations, sources said. Additional forces are being kept on standby for rapid deployment if needed.
'We urge the public to remain calm while staying vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement authorities. We also activated our community outreach programmes to ensure better coordination with local residents in maintaining security,' another police official said.
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