Vizag Police Intensify Security Measures for Sankranti Festival
Visakhapatnam police have significantly increased night patrolling across the city. This proactive move comes as thousands of residents prepare to travel to their native places for the Sankranti harvest festival. The festival period spans from January 13 to 18, leaving many homes locked and unattended.
Heightened Patrols to Deter Burglaries
Police authorities are focusing on preventing house break-ins during this vulnerable time. Sankranti represents the biggest festival for Andhraites, and it has traditionally seen a spike in property-related offenses. Burglars often exploit the opportunity presented by deserted homes.
We have intensified patrolling covering most localities in the city, stated the police. Patrol teams now conduct both day and night rounds. They question individuals moving around suspiciously and, when necessary, detain them for background checks to verify their antecedents.
Crime Prevention Advisory for Residents
The police have issued a detailed crime-prevention advisory to help residents safeguard their properties. Key recommendations include:
- Securing all doors, windows, and grills with reliable, high-quality locks.
- Avoiding storage of cash or jewellery at home and utilizing bank lockers instead.
- Installing CCTV cameras in apartments and residential colonies to enhance surveillance.
Citizens are also strongly urged to use the Locked House Monitoring System (LHMS) app while away on vacation. This e-surveillance initiative actively monitors locked houses and aims to deter potential burglaries throughout the festive season.
Persistent Challenge of Property Offenses
Despite these ongoing measures, property offenses have continued during Sankranti in recent years. Burglars typically strike in the early morning hours. On average, traditional offenders steal property worth several crores from Vizag residents each month. The stolen items commonly include gold, cash, and vehicles.
In 2025, Vizag city recorded a total of 1,135 property offenses, with cumulative losses exceeding ₹7.8 crore. While fewer incidents were reported specifically during the Sankranti period in recent years, police authorities are not taking any chances.
Extensive Preparations and Public Appeal
Police officials confirm they are preparing extensively for this year's festival. They continue to appeal to citizens for safety suggestions and cooperation. However, many residents still ignore these pleas, complicating prevention efforts.
The combination of heightened physical patrols, technological tools like the LHMS app, and public advisories forms the core of Vizag's strategy to ensure a secure Sankranti for all traveling families.
