Mumbai, Sept 14: Security is being beefed up in the metropolis for the forthcoming Navaratri festival in the backdrop of information gathered that prime accused in the August 25 twin blasts, Nasir Ahmed and his associates, had planned explosions during the festival, a top police official said. "The security planned would be on the lines of the bandobast arranged for Ganesha immersion," Joint Commissioner of Police Dr Satyapal Singh said.

Police teams would be deployed at various sensitive and vulnerable zones with additional forces being stationed around congested areas and places where large crowds gather for the nine-day celebration to begin from September 26, he said.
Random checks would be carried out and a hawk-eyed vigil would be maintained over key areas.

Metal detectors would be installed at various places and police personnel would be deployed for all-night patrolling in these areas.

The security is in view of intelligence reports that Nasir, who was killed in an encounter with the police two days ago at central Mumbai, along with his associates, had planned bomb blasts during the Navaratri festival.

In Mumbai, the festival is celebrated in a grand manner, primarily by the Gujarati community, by holding nine days of cultural extravaganza, including 'dandiya raas', music concerts and prayer service in honour of Goddess Durga.
Major 'dandiya' shows are mainly held in Vile Parle, Ghatkopar, Mulund (which have recently been a target of terrorist attack) and Goregaon areas.

Bureau Report