Kochi city and surrounding areas are witnessing heavy security arrangements, with the police deploying around 1,500 personnel to ensure public safety as the Onam holiday rush continues.

The police have put up picket points 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 civil police officers, 80 shadow police personnel, and one company of the armed police.

Around 30 cops, who are part of the District Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force, have also been deployed for special anti-drug drive in view of the Onam celebrations.

The police said patrol had been intensified in bar hotels and DJ party venues.

As many as 24 control room vehicles, four Pink Patrol vehicles, and one highway patrol vehicle will be deployed, in addition to regular station patrol vehicles for patrol and vehicle inspections related to the celebrations.

The police said the entire city would remain under CCTV surveillance during the festival days.

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

Members of the public can report any untoward incidents by calling the emergency number 112. Information regarding drug use or drug trafficking can be reported on 99959-66666.

The Ernakulam Rural police have also intensified patrolling in connection with the festival.