In an effort to maintain road safety and public order during the festive season, the Greater Chennai Police launched a special campaign on Sunday targeting illegal bike racing and dangerous stunts. Authorities have issued a stern warning that strict legal action will be taken against anyone caught driving at reckless speeds, racing on public roads, or performing risky maneuvers that endanger public safety.
Special Teams Deployed Across Vulnerable Areas
To curb lawlessness, the department has positioned special teams along major thoroughfares, sensitive routes, and locations where youths are frequently suspected of gathering for racing and stunts. These spots are being monitored throughout the day to identify traffic violators and ensure prompt intervention.
This enforcement drive forms an integral part of broader security arrangements rolled out across the city for Diwali. To preserve law and order, regulate traffic, and protect citizens, nearly 18,000 police personnel have been deployed. Greater Chennai Commissioner of Police A. Amalraj has directed officials to focus heavily on preventing road accidents, managing crowd surges, and suppressing criminal activities.
Enhanced Security at Major Commercial Hubs
The security apparatus draws forces from various branches of the city police alongside the Armed Reserve, Tamil Nadu Special Police, and Home Guards. Surveillance has been substantially intensified around major marketplaces and commercial centers. Additional forces have been assigned to heavy footfall areas such as T. Nagar and Purasaiwakkam to accommodate shoppers flocking in for festive purchases.
Dedicated police teams are keeping a close watch on major intersections and congested corridors to guarantee smooth vehicular movement and prevent any untoward incidents.
Coordination with Fire Services and Time Limits on Fireworks
Furthermore, law enforcement has coordinated with the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services department to reinforce safety measures around fireworks retail outlets and other vulnerable zones. The public has been strictly instructed to abide by the directives issued by the Supreme Court and the state government.
Under the established regulations, bursting firecrackers is permitted solely between 6 AM to 7 AM and 7 PM to 8 PM on the day of Diwali. Police have urged residents to refrain from igniting crackers outside these stipulated windows and to adopt necessary precautions to avert fires or accidental injuries.
Law enforcement officials have specifically appealed to young residents to steer clear of street racing and high-speed stunts. Authorities emphasized that a zero-tolerance approach toward safety violations will remain in effect to guarantee that the festival is observed peacefully and securely.
