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UP cancels official leave ahead of Diwali and Chhath festivals

Chief minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered 24x7 security and uninterrupted civic amenities for the upcoming festive season.

The Uttar Pradesh government has cancelled the leave of all officers and employees from state headquarters to police stations ahead of Deepotsav, Diwali, Chhath and Dev Deepawali, according to the Hindustan Times.

Chief minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials during a video conference on Tuesday to ensure foolproof security, communal harmony and continuous civic amenities. He stated that any effort to disrupt festive celebrations would not be tolerated.

Adityanath ordered round-the-clock police deployment at sensitive religious sites and major temples. He also instructed that commercial establishments remain under 24x7 surveillance during Dhanteras and Diwali through intensive foot patrolling and functional CCTV cameras.

The chief minister directed the transport department to run extra buses and penalise private operators charging high fares. He also called for uninterrupted electricity and clean drinking water in both urban and rural areas.

Regarding fire safety, the chief minister said firecracker shops must be located in open areas away from crowded places. He also instructed that no-objection certificates and licences should be issued without unnecessary delays.

Adityanath told officials to monitor the availability of urea and DAP fertilisers. He ordered that FIRs be registered against those hoarding fertilisers or selling them above prescribed rates.

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