A massive security operation unfolded around Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh’s concert at the Sector 34 Exhibition Ground on Tuesday night, with over 1,100 police personnel ensuring the safety of the 50,000-strong crowd attending the event. This marked the first time such an elaborate security plan was executed for a musical performance in the city, following criticism over the handling of a previous concert by Karan Aujla.
In response to concerns raised by local associations about traffic disruptions and crowd control during Aujla’s performance on December 8, Chandigarh Police organized multiple meetings and devised an extensive security strategy. This comprehensive plan involved various policing zones across the venue and surrounding areas to maintain order and manage potential contingencies.
Massive Police Deployment
Among the 1,100 officers deployed, there were 13 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) and 10 Station House Officers (SHOs) stationed at strategic points throughout the event site. The operation began at 5 pm and lasted until 11 pm, ensuring that the crowd was safely dispersed after the concert.
The security plan covered several crucial areas, including the stage, entry points, VIP zones, the general public lounge, and outer cordons. Over 370 officers were stationed around the stage and public areas, with 70 assigned to secure the stage and backstage areas, while 100 officers were tasked with crowd control in the fan pit and lounges.
Dedicated Zones and Outer Security
For crowd management, the concert venue was divided into distinct zones, including the gold and silver zones. Each zone was supervised by a DSP and two inspectors, with officers assigned to monitor pedestrian and vehicular movement outside the venue. The outer perimeter had several cordons, ensuring smooth traffic flow and preventing any unauthorized access to the concert area.
Security was further bolstered with 35 armed officers deployed on rooftops, providing aerial surveillance. Soft and hard security checkpoints were established at multiple entry points, with 160 officers managing the first-level checks and 120 officers handling the frisking gates.
Patrolling and Backup Forces
Additional patrolling units ensured the safety of attendees traveling between various points around the venue, including the Sham Mall and Pathania Petrol Pump. A backup force of 200 officers, including a half company of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), was stationed near key locations to deal with any unforeseen situations.
Chandigarh Police officials said that the security measures were designed to maintain a controlled environment for concertgoers and prevent any untoward incidents. The successful execution of the concert’s security plan is expected to set a precedent for future high-profile events in the city.
Sources By Agencies
