Heavy security, drone surveillance across UP cities ahead of Eid al-Adha

Agra: Authorities across several districts of Uttar Pradesh, including Aligarh, Muzaffarnagar, Agra and Hathras, have intensified security arrangements ahead of Eid al-Adha, with police conducting flag marches, drone surveillance and foot patrols in communally sensitive areas to ensure peaceful celebrations.On Tuesday evening, Agra Zone ADG SK Bhagat conducted a foot patrol in sensitive areas of Aligarh along with senior police officials and reviewed security arrangements for the festival. During the visit, he reached Shahjamal Eidgah under Delhi Gate police station limits and interacted with local residents and prominent citizens to gather feedback on security measures. He also directed officials to maintain strict vigil and ensure peaceful celebrations.In Muzaffarnagar, Meerut Zone ADG Bhanu Bhaskar, along with SSP Sanjay Kumar Verma, SP City Amrit Jain and other senior officials, led a flag march through sensitive localities.Security personnel patrolled crowded markets and densely populated areas while interacting with residents and traders to assess the ground situation. The march covered several key areas, including Khalapar, Meenakshi Chowk, Fakkarshah Chowk, Shiv Chowk, Idgah Road, Hanuman Chowk, Jhansi Ki Rani and the roadways bus stand. Police teams also used drones to monitor movement in vulnerable pockets.ADG Bhaskar said, “Preparations have already begun for the upcoming Kanwar yatra and other festivals. Discussions are being held with all stakeholders to ensure that every event is conducted peacefully and smoothly in a positive atmosphere.”He added, “Continuous security arrangements are being maintained, with senior officers personally reviewing and assessing the situation on the ground. Under this plan, intensive patrolling was carried out from 5.30 pm till around 7.30-8 pm, after which separate night patrolling will also be conducted.”In Agra, police have put the city under a multi-layered security arrangement ahead of Eid prayers, which will be offered at 181 mosques and two Eidgahs. The city has been divided into six zones and 18 sectors, with additional police and paramilitary forces deployed at strategic points.Meanwhile, the administration in Hathras has also gone on alert. Peace committee meetings are being organised at police stations, while authorities have prohibited offering prayers on roads and public places.SP Chiranjeev Nath Sinha conducted foot patrols in sensitive areas under Kotwali Nagar and Hathras Gate police station limits and directed officers to maintain strict vigil during the festival.