Park Street lights up for Christmas Eve as Kolkata Police deploy 1,500 personnel for crowd control
Digital Desk
Kolkata’s iconic Park Street has been illuminated with festive lights ahead of Christmas Eve, drawing thousands of visitors to the city’s traditional celebrations. With large crowds expected across Park Street, Maidan and Dharmatala, the Kolkata Police have put in place an extensive security and crowd management plan to ensure public safety.
Police officials said nearly 1,500 personnel have been deployed for the occasion, including officers in white uniform, women police, special branch staff and plainclothes personnel. Senior officers, including Deputy Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners and Inspectors, will supervise arrangements on the ground throughout the evening and night.
According to the police, heightened vigilance has been introduced this year in view of regional security concerns, including recent unrest in Bangladesh and a blast reported in Delhi. Authorities said the aim is to prevent overcrowding and respond swiftly to any emergency.
A key feature of this year’s arrangement is controlled pedestrian movement along Park Street. Entry and exit points have been clearly demarcated to regulate the flow of people. “Visitors will be allowed to enter Park Street from one designated side and exit through another. Turning back on the same route will not be permitted,” a senior police officer said.

In addition to manpower deployment, police have installed watchtowers at strategic points and activated drone surveillance to monitor crowd density in real time. Quick response teams, ambulances and fire safety units have been kept on standby to deal with any medical or security-related contingencies.
Crowds are also expected to spill over into adjoining areas such as Maidan and Dharmatala, where additional personnel have been posted. Allen Park, a major attraction during Christmas celebrations, is expected to witness heavy footfall as visitors gather to view decorations and attend events.

Police have urged the public to follow instructions, cooperate with personnel on duty and avoid unnecessary congestion. Authorities said the arrangements are aimed at ensuring that Christmas Eve celebrations remain peaceful, orderly and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.
