In preparation for the upcoming festival season, the Kolkata Police and the West Bengal Power Department are taking measures to ensure public safety and uninterrupted services.

The Kolkata Police has restricted routine leave for all personnel from September 21 to October 8 and again from October 18 to October 28 to ensure maximum force mobilisation during the festive period. Senior officials have been directed not to grant leave except in cases of “extreme emergency.”

According to a notification, senior officials — including the Joint Commissioners of Police for Crime and Intelligence, all Deputy Commissioners, and all Assistant Commissioners — are advised not to grant routine leave to any police personnel under their command. The only exception will be for cases of “extreme emergency.”

The directive also states that police personnel without stay-out permission must remain in their barracks when not on duty, allowing for rapid deployment in case of an emergency. This measure has caused concern among some officers, who say the extended leave restriction creates a backlog of requests, making it even more difficult for them to take time off after the festive season.

Meanwhile, the West Bengal Power Department is preparing for a likely record demand for electricity during Durga Puja, which will be celebrated from September 28 to October 2.

During a review meeting, State Power Minister Aroop Biswas announced that the peak load is expected to reach 12,050 MW, a significant increase from last year’s 9,912 MW. This represents a more than 21% increase in demand.

The minister highlighted a sharp rise in temporary electricity connections for Durga Puja, noting that in 2024, there were over 50,550 connections, a 141% increase from 2011. Last year, the state recorded 56,034 temporary puja connections with a load of 1,403 MW.

To ensure uninterrupted service, approximately 79,414 personnel will be on round-the-clock duty, supported by nearly 3,700 mobile vans.

A 24×7 central Puja Control Room has been launched to address consumer issues. Consumers can call the toll-free number 19121 or other designated helplines for assistance.

Consumers in distribution areas can call the toll-free number 19121 or the Vidyut Bhavan control room at 8900793503 and 8900793504.