Goemkarponn desk
VASCO: A comprehensive law and order meeting was convened today in anticipation of the 125th Damodar Bhajani Saptah festival, which will begin on August 10th. The meeting, chaired by Mormugao Deputy Collector Bhagwant Karmali, saw attendance from key officials including DySP Salim Sheikh, MMC Chairperson Girish Borkar, and representatives from various departments.
DySP Salim Sheikh highlighted the significant turnout expected this year, noting that the festival’s commencement on a weekend is likely to draw larger crowds. “We are anticipating a large number of devotees as Saptah starts on a weekend and continues for a week. We have made elaborate arrangements with around 400 police personnel on duty for any law and order situation. Additionally, 50 traffic police officers will manage traffic flow. CCTV cameras will be installed to monitor activities and prevent any untoward incidents. Heavy vehicles will be diverted to the new flyover, and roads like the one behind the police station and FL Gomes road will remain open. We are coordinating with GAMMON INDIA to ensure that ongoing road work continues in alternate areas,” stated DySP Salim Sheikh.
MMC Chairperson Girish Borkar emphasized the importance of effective traffic management to mitigate congestion in Vasco city. “We have instructed traffic police to handle the increased traffic efficiently, especially given the city’s regular congestion issues. Rent-a-cab and rent-a-bike operators are requested not to park their vehicles in the city during the festival week to avoid inconvenience to the public. We have also directed police to monitor and take action against unauthorized agents and verify their ID cards. All departments have been briefed about their specific roles during the festival,” he stated.
Santosh Khorjuvekar, General Secretary of Damodar Bhajani Saptah, detailed the extensive preparations across various sectors. “This meeting was crucial for coordinating the festival arrangements, with a special focus on law and order. We discussed traffic management, parking, medical facilities, the deployment of doctors and nurses, fire safety measures, and sanitation facilities for stalls at different locations. Water supply arrangements were also reviewed. We appeal to the public to cooperate fully to ensure the success of the 125th Damodar Bhajani Saptah this year,” he remarked.
With these comprehensive measures in place, the organizers are optimistic about managing the large influx of devotees and ensuring a smooth and safe festival experience.
