Puri: Extensive preparations are underway for the world-famous Rath Yatra in Puri on July 16, with the State government putting in place elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the annual religious festival.
Chief Advisor to the CM, Prakash Mishra, on Monday led a high-level review of security, traffic management, and overall readiness, joined by senior officials including Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee, ADG (Modernization) Soumendra Priyadarshi, IGP (Central Range) Satyajit Naik and other key police and civil administration officers. The meeting emphasised seamless inter-agency coordination, robust crowd management, traffic regulation, and swift emergency response mechanisms.
Speaking to the media, the ADG, who has been assigned with overall responsibility for overseeing the festival’s arrangements, highlighted the deployment of stringent, multi-layered security protocols. National Security Guard (NSG) Black Cat Commandos have arrived and are being positioned at critical locations alongside anti-terrorist squads and the state’s Special Tactical Unit. A dedicated security control room monitors live CCTV feeds, while anti-drone systems are actively in place. Given Puri’s coastal setting, maritime security has been strengthened through coordinated patrolling by the Coast Guard, with the Indian Navy on active standby.
“Additionally, the Coast Guard will conduct aerial reconnaissance using helicopters and specialised aircraft to bolster surveillance,” he said.
Nearly 12,000 police personnel are being deployed in a three-tier arrangement covering land, sea, and air, supported by extensive CCTV networks, drones, and advanced systems. Railway security has also been ramped up involving the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), and local police. “We have held multiple rounds of meetings with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to maintain absolute synergy through centralised control rooms. The Indian Railways is operating over 300 special trains during this festival period. To secure the platforms and core railway zones, a joint security team comprising the RPF, Government Railway Police (GRP), and our Puri Police has been formed to supervise all safety metrics collectively,” the ADG detailed.
Traffic and Parking Management
Traffic management remains a key focus amid the massive influx of visitors. “This year, we have introduced six completely new parking lots within Puri city limits, bringing the total count to 30. We have designated specific, colour-coded demarcations indicating precisely where Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs), Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), and two-wheelers must be parked,” he explained.
“To keep the public informed, Transport Commissioner and ADG Amitabh Thakur alongside DIG STF Kumar Vishal Singh are overseeing the traffic command. We are using massive LED display boards across entry and exit points to update drivers. In addition, we are rolling out a mass SMS-alert system to transmit instant traffic updates to mobile devices, publishing frequent social media advisories, and leveraging FM Radio channels through our Integrated Command and Control Centre to provide real-time updates on route conditions and parking availability.”
Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida stated that the district administration has made elaborate arrangements focusing on crowd control, law and order, essential services, and devotee convenience. Around 200 Executive Magistrates have been deployed across the city, while drinking water supply has been significantly enhanced. Other measures include improved public amenities, sanitation, healthcare, and emergency services, with multiple evacuation points established.
Police conduct mock drills
To fine-tune operations, the police conducted a mock chariot-pulling drill using jeeps as symbolic representations of the three chariots (Taladhwaja, Nandighosha, and Darpadalana). The exercise familiarised personnel with security cordons, crowd management, phased deployments (clearance, dragging, and cordon teams), and command protocols using flag signals.
Notably, Taladhwaja, Nandighosha, and Darpadalana are being fitted with a newly designed waterproof braking system, which is expected to improve durability and ensure smoother control of the chariots throughout the procession.
Separately, lifeguards from the Puri beach private association carried out rescue drills to prepare for potential water emergencies, focusing on rapid response, first aid, and awareness about rip currents for devotees and tourists visiting the beach during the festival.
Meanwhile, the traditional craftsmanship associated with the grand chariots added to the spiritual and cultural splendour of the Rath Yatra. Intricate brass ornaments prepared by traditional artisans are being used to enhance the beauty and magnificence of the iconic chariots.
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