Prayagraj: This year, drone cameras, a network of CCTVs, separate entry and exit points, crowd management scheme, and trained, experienced security volunteers will be some of the security features to ensure the safety and security of Durga Puja pandals and visitors in Prayagraj. With Durga Puja and Dusshera festivities fast approaching, senior police and fire department officials have issued a set of guidelines and have laid special emphasis on security arrangements. Apart from security plan, the police have also decided to implement a separate plan for crowd control or any other emergency, especially during evening hours.Chief Fire Officer (Prayagraj) Chandra Mohan told TOI, “No synthetic cloths or rope will be used in erecting pandals.” He added that no pandal will be allowed to be erected below high power lines and there should be an adequate distance from electric poles and lines. He further added, “The fire department has prohibited the use of AC, furnace, stove, or electric heaters inside the pandals. Cops have asked pandal committees to engage experienced electricians for wiring, and there should be adequate space for entry and exit routes.” All pandal committees must have adequate firefighting equipment as per the guidelines. They would have to obtain an NOC from the concerned departments. Meanwhile, a senior cop said, “Puja committees will be advised to depute additional volunteers to control the crowd thronging the pandals, especially during peak hours (7 pm to 2 am).” These volunteers are being deployed in shifts to avoid any laxity, he added. He further maintained, “All the major puja pandals would be under police scanner and skilled volunteers would be assisting cops to handle emergency-like situations in case of a stampede or fire breakout. There would be a separate arrangement for water to ensure an adequate supply to tackle any accidental fire.” Majority of visitors visit pandals during evening hours to enjoy the lighting arrangements and the grandeur of the Goddess while offering puja. There would be shift-wise duties of policemen at static locations so that they remain alert to tackle any crowd problem.The installation of CCTVs would help cops and puja committees to keep an eye on the visitors, and additional security forces have been deployed to maintain law and order. Puja committees have also been instructed to ensure proper lighting inside and outside the pandals during Durga Puja and Navratra celebrations. It is estimated that there would be around 300 small and big puja pandals in the city, and security would be reviewed on a routine basis.