Choppers, drones to be deployed

Efforts are underway to install 458 CC cameras, including 248 equipped with Infrared facility to capture images even during nights

Godavari Pushkarams are all set to witness a plethora of sophisticated devices in play to ensure safety of the visiting devout.

The police department is making arrangements to deploy drones, equipped with modern cameras at important ghats for obtaining live feed of the proceedings. These will be supplemented by Aerostats (aerial balloons fitted with cameras) for which the department is holding negotiations with the providers. Helicopters would be pressed into service for aerial survey of the pilgrim ghats in Rajahmundry and other places in East and West Godavari districts. The department is engaged in leveraging the advantage of social media Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp for an easy two way communication with the visiting pilgrims.

Mobile App

“A mobile App is being developed for the benefit of pilgrims. The department will be communicating about the situation at different ghats including the crowd and traffic issues to pilgrims through these devices,” additional Director General (Law & Order) R.P. Thakur said.

CC cameras

Efforts are underway to install 458 CC cameras, including 248 equipped with Infrared facility to capture images even during nights in addition to opening FM radios to interact with pilgrims and guide them.

A master Command and Control Centre would be opened at Rajahmundry.