Sambhal, March 12 -- Authorities have ramped up security measures ahead of Holi celebrations, with extensive arrangements in place to ensure the peaceful conduct of festivals.

Detailing the arrangements, Sambhal DM Rajendra Pensia said, "The procession of fairs will be taken out tomorrow. The total number of fairs is 16. We held peace committee meetings in every locality and village and two committee meetings at the district level. We have formed 27 quick response teams. We have created a total of six zones and 29 sectors and deployed magistrates and police officers in each one... SHOs of every police station and all magistrates have been asked to patrol the hotspots. PAC battalions have been deployed for three-tier security as before......