Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), July 2: Elaborate preparations are underway for the world-renowned Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath and siblings in Puri, Odisha, with special emphasis on security, traffic management, crowd control, and law enforcement, announced Director General of Police (DGP) Arun Sarangi.
To ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the grand festival on July 7 and 8, the DGP informed reporters that 180 platoons of police force will be deployed in Puri. Anticipating a gathering of over 10 lakh devotees from across India and abroad, comprehensive security measures are being implemented.
The Indian Coast Guard has been enlisted to bolster coastal security during the festivities, deploying forces and helicopters for effective surveillance.
Key security personnel include four Additional Director Generals of Police, six Inspectors General, 14 Deputy Inspector Generals, and 130 Inspectors, alongside 90 executive magistrates overseeing operations throughout Rath Yatra.
Special attention is being given to crowd and traffic management, ensuring the safe execution of chariot pulling ceremonies, and providing security for visiting VVIPs. Notably, elaborate arrangements have been made for the visit of President Droupadi Murmu, who will arrive by helicopter at Puri and proceed to Raj Bhavan before participating in the Rath Yatra celebrations. Enhanced security protocols have been devised for her convoy.
The pilgrimage town of Puri will be under stringent security cover, featuring bomb disposal squads, sniffer dogs, sharpshooters, and drone surveillance to address any potential threats or emergencies, emphasized DGP Arun Sarangi.
