26k cops deployed for statewide safety ahead of festive season in TN

The city police and the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services Department have stepped up safety and security measures across the state ahead of the festive rush, deploying a combined force of more than 26,000 personnel to ensure public safety and prevent accidents.

According to an official statement, nearly 18,000 police personnel — including officers from the law and order, crime, traffic, armed reserve, special police, and home guard wings — have been deployed across major commercial and residential areas. The heightened security arrangements will remain in force until October 22, covering the entire Deepavali celebration period.

In



Chennai, the police have installed 16 temporary watchtowers to monitor crowd movements — eight in T Nagar, four in Kilpauk, and two each in Washermenpet and Flower Bazaar. In addition, four temporary control rooms have been set up at T Nagar, Purasawalkam, Washermenpet, and Flower Bazaar to coordinate real-time surveillance and crowd management.

To tackle petty crimes during the festive rush, plainclothes police personnel have been stationed in crowded markets and shopping zones to keep a watch on pickpockets and habitual offenders. The city police have also introduced drone surveillance and face-recognition systems in high-footfall areas to strengthen security monitoring.