Goa on alert ahead of Ganesh festival, security beefed up across the state

He, however, did not mention any specific terror threat input for the coastal state. “During the festival, night patrolling will also be increased for which additional home guards would be deployed,” he said.

The police have identified 51 sarvajanik (community) Ganesh pandals – 24 in North Goa district and 27 in South Goa district – where there would be special patrolling to keep a watch on every person, he said.

Police officials have been holding meetings with the pandal organisers to sensitise them about maintaining law and order during the festivities, he said.

“There should be a single entry and exit point at the pandal so that checking can be conducted properly,” he said. The official also appealed to the people to report any suspicious activity to the police for taking quick and timely action.