Extensive security in UP as Holi approaches

Lucknow, Mar 12 (UNI) The twin blasts that rocked Varanasi on Tuesday last, have prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to go in for extensive security arrangements during the festival of colours -- Holi -- especially in temples located in the districts bordering Nepal.

Principal Secretary (Home) Alok Sinha said here today that extensive security arrangements have been ordered across the state especially at busy public places, religious places, bus and railway stations and parking lots.

Mr Sinha further said that instructions have been issued to all police chiefs and districts magistrates to ensure proper security during Holi programmes, especially in community celebrations, particularly at religious sites like Varanasi, Allahabad and Chitrakoot. Bomb disposal squads, dog squads, forensic units, break down vehicles, trauma units and ambulances have also been put on maximum alert, he added.

Meanwhile, a report from East UP district of Maharajganj said that security at temples in districts bordering Nepal have been intensified in the wake of the blast at Sankat Mochan temple in Varanasi and the coming Holi festival.

Security at temples in Ayodhya including Hanuman Gadhi and Kanak Bhawan has also been reportedly stepped up following the twin Tuesday last blasts in Varanasi.

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