Onam rush: 1,500 police officers deployed across Kochi to ensure public safety

Elaborate security measures have been put in place by the police in the district in view of the Onam rush. | Photo credit: H. VIBHU

Kochi city and surrounding areas are witnessing tight security, with police deploying around 1,500 personnel to ensure public safety as the Onam festivities continue.

Police have placed patrol posts at 102 key locations, including busy markets, Marine Drive, Kaloor, Vyttila, Thripunithura and Edappally.

The special deployment includes around 20 inspectors, 160 sub-inspectors and assistant sub-inspectors, nearly 900 civilian police officers, 80 shadow police personnel and one company of armed police.

Around 30 policemen who are part of the district anti-drug special forces have also been deployed for a special anti-drug drive in view of the Onam celebrations.

Police said patrols were stepped up at bar hotels and at DJ parties.

Up to 24 Dispatch vehicles, four Pink Patrol vehicles and one Highway Patrol vehicle will be deployed for patrols and vehicle checks related to the celebrations, in addition to the regular station patrol vehicles.

Police said the entire city will remain under CCTV surveillance during the festival days.

To avoid traffic congestion, motorists have been asked to avoid unauthorized roadside parking and only use the approximately 92 dedicated parking spaces currently available in the city. Strict legal action will be taken against careless and unauthorized roadside parking.

The public can report any unusual events to the emergency number 112. Information regarding drug use or drug dealing can be reported at 99959-66666.

The Ernakulam Rural Police has also stepped up patrolling in connection with the festival.

Published – 28 Aug 2026 0:49 AM IST