Secundrabad, July 10: More women cops will stand guard for the upcoming Mahankali Bonalu Jatara. “The decision has been taken as security of women and children needs special attention,” city police commissioner AK Khan has said. The Secunderabad Bonalu is on August 1 and 2.
“A lot of women participate in this procession. Some of them will also be fasting. Hence it is important to make them feel safe and comfortable,” Khan said and advised women devotees not to wear expensive jewellery during the festivities as they might catch the attention of anti-social elements.
Khan chaired a Bonalu peace meeting at the Mahankali police station in Secunderabad on Friday with the representatives of various communities who shared their views and tips to ensure peaceful celebrations.
“Policemen in civil clothes will be on the lookout for suspicious-looking people and activities. Bomb squad, detective and other departments will be on alert. Police will also coordinate with the GHMC, electricity officials and water board officials. Citizens should alert the police if they spot any mysterious or unclaimed objects,” Khan said.
The city police chief appealed to the people to park their vehicles judiciously in the narrow lanes around the Mahankali temple to avoid traffic snarls.
“I have been attending the Bonalu festival for the past eight years and I would say it is one of the most colourful and important festivals of Telangana and Hyderabad. The Secunderabad zone is known to be a peaceful one and we will make sure it remains the same but the public should cooperate,” he said.
He noted down the suggestions made at the meeting.
Mahankali division corporator Kiranmayee, Bansilalpet corporator Devanand, TDP leader PL Srinivas, Imam of Jamia Masjid Abdul Khadir and Maithree Committee members were present.
—Agencies