Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced comprehensive security measures for the world-famous Rath Yatra of Sri Jagannath in Puri. A notification issued by the Revenue Department on Monday detailed the appointment of 90 OAS and ORS officers as Executive Magistrates to oversee law and order during the festival who will be deployed in the district from 3 to 19 July.
These officers, currently serving as Tahsildars, BDOs, and Executive Officers in various districts, will be temporarily reassigned to Puri for the duration of the Rath Yatra. Their primary responsibility will be to supervise and maintain public order throughout the event.
In a high-level meeting chaired by Police DG Arun Kumar Sarangi, security arrangements were discussed for the world-famous Ratha Yatra of Mahaprabhu Sri Jagannath. Sarangi later briefed the media, stating, “A force of 180 police platoons will be deployed for this year’s Rath Yatra.”
The security team will include, 4 Additional DG level officers, 6 IG and DIG level officers, 19 Commandant or SP level officers, 33 Additional SP or Deputy Commandant level officers, 75 Assistant Commander or DSP level officers, 130 inspectors, 675 ASI and SI rank officers.
Additionally, 3 platoons of the State Armed Force (SAF) have been assigned, and a request has been made to the central government for 5 companies of the Rapid Action Force.
To curb the parking problem, drone surveillance of parking areas is discussed and live updates on parking to be shared via social media. Special security protocols will be implemented for the President and other VIP guests, with Puri being placed under blanket security for the festival.
Puri SP Pinak Mishra and other senior IPS officers were present at the meeting, underlining the importance of the event and the government’s commitment to ensuring its smooth and safe execution.
