Puri Ratha Yatra: Odisha CM Mohan Majhi reviews preparations, assures smooth, incident-free festival
By Nalini Sahu
Bhubaneswar, June 22: In a determined effort to ensure a smooth, safe, and incident-free Ratha Yatra this year, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday affirmed that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place for the seamless conduct of the centuries-old annual festival.
The Chief Minister chaired a high-level review meeting in Puri, where he assessed the preparations being undertaken by various government departments ahead of the grand event, which attracts lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad.
Joining the Chief Minister at the meeting were Deputy Chief Ministers Pravati Parida and K.V. Singh Deo, Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushnachandra Mahapatra, along with MLAs from Puri district. Senior officials from multiple departments and the police administration were also in attendance to present their readiness plans.
The Chief Minister conducted detailed deliberations on key aspects such as transport and mobility management, crowd control measures, traffic regulation, law and order, public health services, sanitation arrangements, and coordination with Indian Railways for operating special trains to manage the massive inflow of pilgrims.
Addressing the media after the review, CM Majhi said, “The entire world eagerly awaits the sacred Ratha Yatra of Lord Jagannath. This year, a dedicated ministerial-level committee has been formed to monitor the preparations and ensure the festival is conducted without incident.”
He further expressed confidence in the meticulous arrangements underway, highlighting that all departments were working in close coordination to provide an orderly, secure, and spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees.
To strengthen security, as many as 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed at critical locations across the pilgrim town. Complementing a five-tier security cover, over 10,000 police personnel, including Quick Response Teams (QRTs), will be deployed. Drone surveillance will further enhance security and assist with crowd management throughout the festival.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to remain vigilant and ensure all emergency services stay on high alert during the Yatra period.
