Odisha's Strict Measures for Rath Yatra: No Climbing Chariots and Mobile Phones Allowed!

Odisha Government's Firm Stance on Rath Yatra Regulations

Puri: The Odisha government has announced strict legal measures, including potential arrests, for anyone who is not a servitor and is found climbing the chariots during this year's Rath Yatra, as stated by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday.

Additionally, he emphasized that mobile phones will be banned on the chariots.

Harichandan informed reporters, "No non-servitor will be permitted to ascend the chariots. If anyone is caught, they will face severe consequences, including arrest. Furthermore, servitors are also prohibited from bringing mobile phones onto the chariots."

To ensure that rituals are completed on time and to uphold discipline during the 'Pahandi Bije' (the ceremonial procession) of the deities, the government has requested a list of servitors assigned to perform rituals on Rath Yatra day, which falls on June 27. "The final list will be strictly enforced," the Minister added.

In a related development, DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania convened a meeting to assess security arrangements for the Rath Yatra.

The route from Uttara Square near Bhubaneswar to Puri will be monitored via CCTV, and efforts are being made to install additional cameras along the Puri-Konark road, according to the DGP.

For the first time, an integrated command and control center will be established at the Puri Town Police Station to oversee crowd management and traffic.

"AI-enabled CCTV cameras are being set up at strategic locations in Puri for real-time surveillance," he noted.

Traffic advisories will be disseminated from the control room to assist pilgrims and visitors.

Moreover, a mobile application has been developed to provide information on routes and parking options for those visiting Puri during the festival.

In addition to police personnel, rapid action forces, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and specialized agencies will be deployed in Puri for the festival. The authorities have also been asked to send central forces.

Drones and an anti-drone system will be utilized in Puri during the Yatra.

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja visited Puri on Sunday to review the progress of chariot construction.

"The construction of the chariots is on schedule, and I am confident it will be completed in time," he told reporters.