As part of the proactive measures to ensure a safe, peaceful and eco-friendly celebration of Durga Puja 2025, the Commissionerate Police, Bhubaneswar–Cuttack organised a special awareness programme at Kamalakanta High School, Cuttack. The event witnessed the participation of senior police officials including the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC), along with other dignitaries and community representatives.

During the programme, the officers interacted with the students and sensitised them about the importance of celebrating festivals responsibly. The focus was laid on three major aspects – firstly, the harmful effects of sound pollution and the need to follow prescribed decibel limits while using loudspeakers and during immersion processions; secondly, the emphasis on ensuring an alcohol-free immersion environment, where students were urged to spread the message within their families and neighbourhoods to avoid accidents and untoward incidents; and thirdly, the hazards of polythene use, encouraging everyone to adopt eco-friendly alternatives like cloth and jute bags, as well as promoting the use of biodegradable materials during puja and immersion activities.

The dignitaries highlighted that festivals are occasions of devotion, harmony and cultural expression, and it is the collective responsibility of society to ensure they are observed without harming the environment or disturbing public peace. Students were motivated to act as ambassadors of awareness, carrying forward the message of discipline, safety and sustainability.

The initiative forms part of the larger public outreach drive of the Odisha Police Organisation, aimed at involving youth and educational institutions in building a culture of responsibility and civic sense. With community cooperation and active youth participation, Commissionerate Police hopes to make this year’s Durga Puja celebrations peaceful, accident-free and environmentally conscious across Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.