Chennai: The city police and the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services Department have stepped up safety and security measures across the state ahead of the festive rush, deploying a combined force of more than 26,000 personnel to ensure public safety and prevent accidents.

According to an official statement, nearly 18,000 police personnel — including officers from the law and order, crime, traffic, armed reserve, special police, and home guard wings — have been deployed across major commercial and residential areas. The heightened security arrangements will remain in force until October 22, covering the entire Deepavali celebration period.

In Chennai, the police have installed 16 temporary watchtowers to monitor crowd movements — eight in T Nagar, four in Kilpauk, and two each in Washerm

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