Mysuru prepares Dasara security plan and bans unsafe procession viewing spots

Mysuru police have prepared a two-phase security operation for Dasara, running from October 11 to 21. More than five thousand civil and traffic police officers will be supported by reserve units and home guards.

City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar outlined the arrangements at a press conference on October 9. The Hindu reported a deployment of 5,161 civil and traffic police personnel, 33 Karnataka State Reserve Police platoons, 25 City Armed Reserve and District Armed Reserve units, 24 anti-sabotage checking teams and 1,500 home guards.

The first deployment phase will cover October 11–18, with the second running October 19–21. Personnel will cover the inauguration at Chamundi Hill, Palace events, exhibitions, sporting competitions, fairs and other venues. The Jamboo Savari procession and torchlight parade at Bannimantap will receive particular attention.

Emergency arrangements include 28 ambulances and 32 fire and rescue teams. Police said traffic would be managed to allow medical vehicles to reach nearby hospitals without delay. Eighteen police help desks will operate across the city throughout the festival.

Police and municipal officials identified 92 old, unfinished or dilapidated buildings along the Jamboo Savari route. Owners have been notified not to let spectators use those buildings to watch the procession. Viewing from trees will also be prohibited, with designated personnel enforcing the restrictions.

Anti-sabotage checks are planned at major venues, railway stations and bus stands. Police intend to conduct surprise lodge inspections and use drones for surveillance. The city has about 35,794 cameras in public places and commercial premises, with additional cameras planned around the Palace, Bannimantap and the procession route.

Four Akkapade women's police units will operate in two shifts to help protect women and children in crowded locations. Help desks will provide festival, transport, parking and tourism information and direct visitors with serious complaints to the appropriate police stations.