Ahead of the annual ‘Gangamma Jatara’ festivities in Chittoor, the district police have deployed 600 personnel as part of an extensive security and traffic management plan to ensure peaceful celebrations and smooth movement of the devotees.

Addressing a press conference here on Sunday, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Chittoor) J. Venkatanarayana said the police have intensified surveillance in view of the large crowds expected during the traditional jatara and immersion processions, particularly on May 12 and 13.

“We have set up five check-posts, 14 pickets, Rakshak patrol teams, and Blue Colt mobile units on duty round-the-clock during the festivities,” the Deputy SP said.

Mr. Venkatanarayana highlighted that drone surveillance and CCTV monitoring have been introduced at key congregation points, temple premises, and major junctions to prevent untoward incidents, thefts, and chain-snatching cases. Tight security has also been arranged at Gangamma mandapams in areas including Greamspet, Kongareddypalli, Kattamanchi, Santhapet, Obanapalli, and Mangasamudram.

An Integrated Police Control Room has been established at the Gandhi Bomma Centre for real-time coordination among departments and to issue public advisories through a common public address system in busy festival localities.

The Deputy SP said traffic restrictions on heavy vehicles entering the town during the jatara have been imposed, and that the movement of cars in key junctions has been barred to avoid congestion. He advised the devotees to use designated parking areas and remain cautious about valuables, mobile phones, and children during the celebrations.