Afzalgunj police launch wristband initiative for child safety at Medaram Jathara

Hyderabad: Afzalgunj police on Monday launched a child safety wristband initiative at Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station. The move aims to prevent children from getting separated from their families during the upcoming Medaram Jathara. Authorities expect a massive surge of devotees.

Meanwhile, the Hyderabad City Police set up a dedicated stall at MGBS at 11 am on January 27, 2026. Police began issuing identification wristbands to children travelling to the Jathara. They implemented the initiative in association with Vodafone Idea as a preventive safety step.

Deputy Commissioner of Police G. Chandra Mohan formally inaugurated the stall. In addition, senior officers attended the launch. They included Additional DCPs Krishna Goud and Shyam Babu, ACP S. Sudershan of Goshamahal Division, Afzalgunj SHO N. Ravi, and MGBS Regional Manager J. Srilatha.

Police officials said they launched the initiative after reviewing past incidents of missing children at large gatherings. Moreover, they cited the heavy footfall expected at the biennial festival as a key reason.

Afzalgunj police wristband uses QR code for quick identification

Each wristband carries a unique QR code. Staff generate the code after collecting basic details at the stall. These details include the child’s name, guardian’s name, mobile number, and address.

If a child gets separated in the crowd, police or volunteers can scan the QR code. As a result, they can quickly identify the child and reunite them with their family.

Finally, Afzalgunj police urged parents and guardians travelling through MGBS to use the facility. They said the wristbands would ensure a safer and hassle-free pilgrimage.