Udupi: Tight security arrangements for Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Vitla Pindi celebrations on Sept 4-5

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Sep 3, 2026: Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place in Udupi ahead of the Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Vitla Pindi celebrations scheduled for September 4 and 5, with a focus on ensuring public safety, preventing untoward incidents and thefts, and maintaining smooth traffic movement.

The Udupi police department has made extensive security arrangements for the popular Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Vitla Pindi festival, which is expected to draw thousands of devotees. Measures have been taken to ensure devotees can have a safe and hassle-free darshan while maintaining law and order.

Fingerprint scanners and drone surveillance

Fingerprint scanners will be used to identify and monitor individuals with a history of criminal activities. Drone cameras will also be deployed to keep a close watch over the entire festival area, Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar said.

Under the leadership of Udupi District Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, the security deployment includes one SP, one Additional SP, two DySPs, six Police Inspectors, 25 Police Sub-Inspectors, 35 Assistant Sub-Inspectors, 186 Head Constables, Police Constables and women police personnel, and 50 Home Guards.

For additional security, one KSRP platoon comprising 25 personnel, nine DAR platoons with 10 personnel each, three fire and emergency response teams, two ambulances and three drone teams have been deployed, the SP said.

Parking arrangements at seven locations

To facilitate devotees visiting Sri Krishna Matha and ensure smooth traffic flow, parking facilities have been arranged at seven locations across the city.

The designated parking areas are MGM Ground, Sri Krishna Matha Rajangana parking area, Ammanni Ramanna Shetty Hall parking area, Beedinagudde Ground, Beedinagudde Stadium, Vidyodaya School parking area and Mandavi Royal Garden parking area.

CCTV cameras installed at 45 locations

To manage crowds and ensure the safety of women and children, additional personnel and volunteers have been deployed. As part of enhanced security measures, CCTV cameras have been installed at 45 additional strategic locations across the city for continuous surveillance.

Twelve public announcement systems have also been arranged to provide timely information and instructions to the public.

SP Hariram Shankar urged the public to cooperate with the police, follow traffic rules and adhere to the instructions issued by the authorities to ensure that the Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Vitla Pindi celebrations are conducted peacefully and safely.

— Hariram Shankar, Superintendent of Police, Udupi District