Security beefed up, ban on Ganga baths on Holi

Keeping in view the rising number of drowning cases every year in Ganga during the Holi festival, the district authorities have decided to beef up security in the city and have banned people from taking baths on the river barrage, officials said today.
A statement today issued by District Magistrate Roshan Jacob said that taking bath on the barrage of river Ganga has been banned for Holi and one week after the festival.
The district administration has taken these steps after there were reports of people getting drowned in the river every year, Jacob said.
Barricades will be put up on the spot by the administration. Police personnel will also be deployed to refrain people from taking bath, he said.

Moreover, liquor shops have been asked to remain closed for two days - March 5 and 6 - and action will be taken against the defaulters, the statement said.
Police personnel will also be posted at places where there will be torching of Holika bonfire and their battalions will be posted at main roads and junctions.
Action will also be taken against those who molest women and forcefully throw colours on them, the statement said.
According to district authorities, vehicles will be checked and action will be taken in drunk and driving cases.