Patna, March 17: To ensure that Holi does not lose its shine, elaborate security arrangements have been made in the state for March 19 and 20.

Additional director-general (headquarters) Rajvardhan Sharma said additional security forces will be deployed in the districts, considered to be sensitive.

Sharma said two additional companies of the Rapid Action Force will be deployed in the districts to maintain peace and communal harmony during the festival. District armed police, Bihar Military Police and the Special Auxiliary Police, who have been asked to maintain a close surveillance on criminals during the festival, will also be posted.

“Instructions have been given to all the superintendents of police to take action against those trying to vitiate the atmosphere,” Sharma said.

Sources in the state police headquarters said additional police pickets have been set up in areas, identified as sensitive and super-sensitive. In rural areas, station house officers have been asked to remain in touch with the district police headquarters. The zonal inspector-generals and range deputy inspector-generals have been asked to monitor the situation.

Patna will be under the surveillance of senior police officers. About 500 additional police personnel have been deployed for security in the city, a senior police officer said.

“Personnel will be deployed in every part of Patna so that people don’t go overboard and harass fellow citizens,” the officer said.

Police pickets will function round-the-clock at Phulwari Sharif, Danapur and Patna City areas.

Magistrates would be deployed to maintain law and order and arrangements have also been made for mobile patrol in the city, the senior officer said.