MEERUT, July 23 -- With lakhs of kanwariyas and Shiva devotees expected to gather at the historic Baba Augharnath Temple in Meerut for Jalabhishek on Shivratri, authorities have implemented extensive arrangements. The Uttar Pradesh Police, in coordination with the anti-terrorism squad (ATS) and paramilitary forces, has rolled out a three-tiered security strategy, covering everything from the temple sanctum to key city entry points. The comprehensive three-layer security plan has been divided into outer, inner and isolation cordons, with personnel strategically deployed in each zone, stated senior officials. The Augharnath Temple is a key pilgrimage site during Shivratri, attracting a large number of kanwariyas who stop to offer symbolic water before continuing their journey. In view of the heavy footfall, officials have arranged separate entry and exit routes, each monitored by gazetted officers to maintain order and ensure smooth movement of the crowd. The officials stated that at the centre of this security setup is the deployment of ATS commandos, who will oversee the temple complex, including the sanctum sanctorum. They will be supported by local police teams posted inside and outside the temple. Additionally, female police officers in plain clothes will be stationed in the inner sanctum to ensure safety and assist female devotees. The Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Rapid Response Force (RRF) will be stationed at key outer locations, with additional support from the local police stations and the police lines units. To strengthen surveillance, the Army's Quick Reaction Team (QRT) will monitor the area using drones. To ensure smooth vehicular movement and prevent congestion near the temple, barricades have been set up at nine key intersections across Meerut. A control room has been established on the first floor of the temple to coordinate operations. The command centre is connected to 500 CCTV cameras installed throughout the district, allowing officers to monitor crowd density, traffic issues, and any suspicious activity in real time, they informed. No vehicle will be allowed to approach the temple within a 500-meter radius. To implement this expansive plan, a large contingent of forces has been mobilized, including an ATS unit, 2 RAF companies, 3 PAC companies, 2 additional SPs, 8 circle officers, 15 inspectors, 40 sub-inspectors, 200 constables, 80 women constables, 500 home guards and 500 PRD personnel. Superintendent of police (SP) Raghvendra Kumar Mishra stated that all necessary steps have been taken to ensure a peaceful and well-organised Jalabhishek event. "A foolproof plan is in place. Police teams will be on high alert from the sanctum to all main access routes of the temple. CCTV monitoring, drone surveillance, and close coordination among the ATS, RAF, and local police form the backbone of this multi-layered security strategy," he said....