Jammu, Oct 01 (KNO): As the city of temples prepares to immerse itself in the joyous fervor of Dussehra on October 2, the authorities have rolled out comprehensive arrangements to ensure a safe and seamless celebration of the festival.
Thousands of devotees are expected to flock to key venues across Jammu for Ramlila enactments, processions and the iconic burning of Ravana's effigy, marking the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festivities.
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana, as narrated in the epic Ramayana.
In Jammu, the celebrations blend deep-rooted spiritual traditions with community spirit, featuring elaborate stage performances, cultural parades and family gatherings.
Preparations have been in full swing since mid-September, with effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnath being meticulously crafted at temple complexes and community grounds.
The highlight of tomorrow's celebrations will be the grand Ramlila performances and the ceremonial effigy burning at major venues such as the Parade Grounds, Gandhi Nagar Dussehra Ground and grounds near historic sites like Kol Kandoli and Bawe Mata Mandir.
According to district administration guidelines, events are slated to begin early in the morning with special pujas and aartis at prominent temples, followed by processions that weave through the city's bustling streets.
Devotional programs and Shobha Yatras (grand processions) starting from local temples including floral tributes to Goddess Durga and Lord Rama.
After culminating Ramlila enactments depicting the final battle between Rama and Ravana at designated open grounds.
The much-anticipated burning of massive Ravana effigies would be accompanied by fireworks and cultural shows. Fairs (melas) with traditional games, food stalls and handicraft exhibitions will light up areas around the venues until late night.
Additional attractions include community feasts, bhajans and dance performances showcasing Dogra folk arts.
The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has organized special sanitation drives along procession routes and congregation sites to maintain hygiene.
Devotees are urged to arrive early to avoid crowds with parking facilities arranged at peripheral lots.
Elaborate security and civic arrangements in light of the large gatherings anticipated, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, in coordination with district authorities, have implemented multi-layered security protocols to ensure public safety.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Ansuya Jamwal reviewed these preparations earlier this month, emphasizing coordinated efforts from all departments.
As per officials, over 500 police officers, including specialized anti-goon squads will be stationed across 14 sectors in the city, with a focus on high-footfall areas.
Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and bomb disposal squads will patrol procession routes.
Enhanced CCTV coverage with 100+ cameras at temples, stadiums and key junctions, integrated with real-time monitoring from a central command center.
Drones will provide aerial oversight during evening events. Diversions on major roads like NH-44 and routes to the sports stadium from 2:00 PM onwards.
Commuters are advised to use public transport or alternate paths to minimize disruptions. Fire and Emergency teams will have tenders on standby at all effigy-burning sites, while the Health Department will deploy medical camps with ambulances and paramedics. The Jal Shakti Department guarantees uninterrupted potable water supply via tankers at venues—(KNO)