Mongla (Bagerhat) Correspondent

The Bangladesh Coast Guard West Zone has scaled up security measures across coastal areas, religious places of worship, and key installations to ensure the safe and peaceful celebration of Sharadiya Durga Puja.

Rear Admiral Md. Moinul Hassan, Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, disclosed this during an inspection of security arrangements at the Mongla Upazila Central Temple on Tuesday afternoon.

Addressing attendees, the Director General highlighted that the Bangladesh Coast Guard has consistently maintained law and order and safeguarded overall security across the country's coastal and riverine regions. He stated that in line with government directives, the force deploys resources during religious festivals to protect citizens and vital infrastructure.

"To ensure seamless security during Sharadiya Durga Puja and prevent any untoward incidents, 3,500 Coast Guard personnel have been deployed across our operational areas from the onset of the festival," Rear Admiral Moinul Hassan said. "Under the Coast Guard West Zone, we are actively securing a total of 144 temples and puja mandaps across the coastal districts of Khulna, Bagerhat, and Satkhira."

He emphasized that intelligence surveillance has been intensified and joint operations are being conducted alongside other law enforcement agencies so that Hindu devotees can celebrate their primary religious festival in a safe, tranquil, and joyous environment.

Providing directives for the concluding rituals, the Coast Guard chief advised devotees to exercise caution during the upcoming idol immersion ceremony. He confirmed that specialized diving teams will be stationed at key immersion sites to handle potential aquatic emergencies. He also urged the public to contact the Coast Guard emergency helpline at 16111 for immediate assistance during any untoward situation.

Expressing confidence in the security framework, Rear Admiral Moinul Hassan expressed optimism that the Sharadiya Durga Puja festival would conclude peacefully, safely, and joyously following the idol immersion on Wednesday.