PANAJI
As Old Goa transformed into a hub of spiritual devotion at the beginning of the Exposition of the relics of St Francis Xavier, Goa Police further heightened security measures on the Feast Day on December 3, Tuesday, to ensure the religious proceedings were held smoothly and safely.
Superintendent of Police Akshat Kaushal (North Goa) told The Goan that nearly 1,500 police personnel had been deployed since 1 am on Tuesday ahead of the first Mass, which commenced at 5 am on December 3. The arrangement remained in place round the clock for the duration of the feast.
He further revealed that 15 watchtowers, manned by Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) personnel trained in handling long-range weapons, had been set up to strengthen security arrangements.
“IRB personnel have also been equipped with certain other equipment to spot intruders,” he added.
Additionally, around 300 CCTV cameras, installed by the Info Tech Corporation of Goa, have been streaming live feeds to a control room set up at the Exposition Secretariat. SP Kaushal added that police personnel had been tasked with monitoring these feeds continuously.
“Security measures include baggage scanners at entry points to the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral Church. Police from the Security Unit are frisking visitors, while the coastal police are patrolling the Mandovi River. Traffic police and Quick Response Teams (QRTs), comprising the Anti-Terrorism Squad, are also involved in the multi-layered security,” he added, noting that the arrangement would remain in place throughout the Exposition.
The Church has deployed 1,000 volunteers to assist with the arrangements, working with the police.
The traffic arrangements, implemented at the start of the Exposition on November 21, 2024, will remain in effect until January 5, 2025.
