Odisha Police Unveils Comprehensive Security Plan for Upcoming Rath Yatra Festival
Robust Security Measures for Rath Yatra
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Police have devised a meticulous security plan to facilitate a seamless Rath Yatra festival, set to commence on June 27, as confirmed by officials.
A crucial preparatory meeting was convened on Sunday, led by Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania at the DGP's Camp Office in Bhubaneswar.
During this meeting, the DGP instructed officials to initiate a special crime control initiative across all police stations statewide.
Officials were also tasked with conducting thorough inspections at various locations, including hotels, lodges, temples, bus terminals, railway stations, labor shelters, and dharamshalas.
In a statement to the press following the meeting, DGP Khurania announced the establishment of an integrated control room at the Puri town police station for the first time.
To enhance traffic management and real-time surveillance, artificial intelligence-driven surveillance cameras will be deployed throughout the city, particularly along the route from Uttara Square to Puri and the Puri-Konark Road.
Additionally, the Odisha Police will introduce a dedicated mobile application that will provide devotees visiting Puri during the festival with real-time updates on traffic advisories, parking areas, congestion alerts, and alternative routes.
The DGP also mentioned that joint patrols will be conducted with the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and Odisha Police Marine Units in coastal waters to mitigate any potential terrorist threats.
Quick Reaction Teams will be stationed on vessels, while drone and anti-drone systems will be utilized to monitor aerial threats during the grand festival.
Moreover, an Anti-Terrorist Squad and a specialized armored vehicle, Rakshak, will be deployed in Puri to address any emergencies that may arise.
DGP Khurania emphasized that this year, a larger contingent of security personnel will be present compared to previous years.
He urged senior police officials to remain vigilant against possible stampede situations and to implement preventive measures, anticipating a large influx of devotees during the festival.
Throughout the Rath Yatra period, including significant rituals like Nabajoubana Darshan, Rath Yatra, Bahuda Yatra, and Suna Besha, DGP Khurania instructed senior officials to maintain a proactive and alert stance.