Puri Prepares for Grand Rath Yatra: Security and Logistics in Place for Devotees
Puri Gears Up for the Annual Rath Yatra
Puri is bustling with excitement as it prepares for the much-anticipated Rath Yatra, set to take place this Friday. With massive wooden chariots positioned along the Grand Road, the town is ready to welcome thousands of devotees. Local authorities have enhanced security measures and logistical arrangements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Arabinda Padhee, the Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), expressed confidence in the preparations, stating, "Thanks to the blessings of Mahaprabhu (Lord Jagannath), we are fully equipped to ensure a seamless Rath Yatra. We are receiving excellent support from the servitors, and all necessary arrangements are in place for the success of this grand event."
The ceremonial pulling of the chariots, which carry the deities Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath, is scheduled to commence at 4 PM following the completion of all rituals.
Authorities anticipate that lakhs of devotees from both India and abroad will participate in the festivities. Reports indicate that around 100,000 visitors had already arrived in Puri by Thursday evening.
Some attendees were fortunate enough to witness the 'Nabajouban Darshan,' where the deities reveal their youthful forms after a two-week period of seclusion. This public viewing was halted following the bathing ritual on June 11, as it is believed the deities require rest after such ceremonies.
According to Bhaskar Mishra, a researcher in Jagannath culture, the deities are kept in isolation at 'Anasar Ghar' for two weeks to recuperate before the Rath Yatra.
Given the expected large crowds, Odisha's Director General of Police, YB Khurania, announced comprehensive security measures. Approximately 10,000 security personnel, including eight companies of Central Armed Police Forces, have been deployed throughout the town.
For the first time, an Integrated Command and Control Centre has been established in Puri to oversee the festival operations closely. Over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed for surveillance across Puri and along the route to Konark, which is renowned for its 13th-century Sun Temple.
Additionally, National Security Guard (NSG) snipers will be stationed on rooftops along the Grand Road near the temple. Police drones, bomb squads, anti-sabotage teams, and dog squads are also part of the security detail, while the Marine Police, Coast Guard, and Indian Navy will ensure safety along the seafront.
In weather updates, the Indian Meteorological Department has forecast thunderstorms with lightning and wind speeds of 30-40 km/h in several districts, including Puri, on Friday.
To facilitate travel, Indian Railways is operating 365 trains to Puri, and the Odisha government has arranged approximately 800 buses to transport devotees from various districts.