Security stepped in Kolkata for Diwali

Kolkata, Oct 17: Elaborate security has been put in place for Kali Puja and Diwali festivals in the city on October 19, when more than 3,500 community pujas are slated to be held, Kolkata Police said on Tuesday.

"On Diwali, around 2,500 police personnel will be deployed in the city. There will be 614 police pickets, 41 divisional mobile teams, 21 quick response teams and 23 flying squads to prevent untoward incidents," Additional Superintendent of Police (Headquarters) Supratim Sarkar said.

Police will keep an eye through 27 watch towers as well.

Special arrangements have been made for the regulation of traffic and crowds outside puja pandals.

"There will be special police deployed at 25 prominent puja pandals while vigil will be increased at all 23 Metro stations," Sarkar said.

The officer said special reserve force would be on duty at 52 police stations to tackle emergency.

"Kolkata police have seized 3,176 kg of banned firecrackers and arrested 18 persons in the last one week," he added.