Diwali, Dhanteras, Chhath rush: Drones, cyber fraud watch as Lucknow Police rolls out security plan

In anticipation of the upcoming festival season, the Lucknow police department rolled out a multi‑layered security strategy designed to address both physical safety and digital threats. The plan incorporates the use of aerial drones to monitor crowded market areas, transport hubs, and religious sites where large numbers of people are expected to gather. Police officials explained that the drones will provide real‑time video feeds to command centres, allowing rapid response to any incidents such as stampedes, theft, or suspicious activity. In addition, a dedicated cyber cell will track and intercept fraudulent online transactions that often surge during festival sales.

The decision to combine traditional policing with modern technology reflects growing concerns about the safety of shoppers and worshippers during high‑traffic periods. Festival celebrations such as Diwali, Dhanteras and Chhath attract visitors from surrounding districts, leading to increased demand for public transport, temporary markets, and digital payment platforms. Authorities have observed a rise in phishing attempts, fake e‑commerce sites, and unauthorized ticket sales in previous years, prompting the need for a proactive cyber watch. By coordinating drone patrols with cyber investigations, the police hope to create a safer environment that deters both physical and virtual crimes.

For residents of Uttar Pradesh, the enhanced security measures are intended to provide peace of mind and protect economic activity during a retail period. The presence of drones is expected to act as a visible deterrent, while the cyber unit will issue public advisories on how to recognize legitimate offers and avoid scams. Officials have urged citizens to report any suspicious behaviour, whether observed on the ground or encountered online, to help maintain order throughout the celebrations. The success of this integrated approach may influence future policing models for other major events across the state.