Lessons in risk management, resource allocation, operations planning, and stakeholder engagement: the case of the Kolkata Police Force and Durga Puja

Abstract

This study explores how the key challenges associated with mega-events revolve around the management of risk, resources, operations planning and stakeholder engagement. Examined throughout this paper are the challenges and achievements of The Kolkata Police Force (KPF) in their role of ensuring safety for the public during the Durga Puja mega-festival. The paper evaluates the various strategies adopted by the KPF to overcome the multifarious challenges of organizing the mega-event. Also offered in this paper is a detailed discussion and suggestions for strategic improvements to multiple-stakeholder collaboration in managing mega-events that are at the scale and scope of the Durga Puja in Kolkata.