OLD GOA: Amid tight security arrangements for the ongoing Exposition of the Relics of St Francis Xavier, the Basilica of Bom Jesus and See Cathedral have recorded a footfall of 6,92,336 devotees and pilgrims since the event began on November 21. CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor every movement of devotees and pilgrimd.
“From November 21 till date (December 5), 6,92,336 devotees and pilgrims have visited the church complex. Six AI-based cameras with face-detection capabilities have also been installed to track movements. These cameras help maintain a database of known chain snatchers and pickpockets,” PRO (SP) Rahul Gupta said.
The Relics will remain available for veneration at the decennial Exposition until January 5, 2025.
On further deployment details, the officer said that 185 police officers and personnel are stationed at entry and exit points and strategic locations at the Basilica while 359 officers are deployed similarly at the See Cathedral.
Fifteen watchtowers, 10 bunkers and two rooftop surveillance points have been set up across the church complex. A total of 167 uniformed police personnel are manning these security posts, Quick Reaction teams deployed at strategic points and commandos from the Anti-Terrorist Squad are on round-the-clock duty.
To curb issues caused by hawkers, beggars and unlicensed vendors, special teams have been formed with 90 uniformed personnel deployed at churches, religious monuments and parking areas.
“Currently, 1,234 uniformed personnel are on duty with an additional 320 staff deployed during peak days, such as the opening and closing days, holidays, weekends, and the feast day, which concluded on December 3,” Gupta added.
A total of 349 CCTV cameras have been installed at the Basilica, See Cathedral, parking areas and fairgrounds for constant surveillance. Plans are underway to increase this number to 600.
A special team of 20 police officers from North and South Goa districts, familiar with known offenders, has been deployed in plain clothes to monitor the Exposition.
Moreover, 400 traffic police personnel are ensuring the smooth flow of vehicles while 30 officers from the Special Branch and other units are gathering intelligence to support local police efforts.