The district administration declared Basudevpur a “Dry Day” today in view of the grand Shree Ram Navami celebrations and the Kalash Shobha Yatra.
The Excise Department issued strict orders to close all liquor outlets, hotels, bars, restaurants, bhang shops, and tari shops under Section 26(1) of the Odisha Excise Act, 2008.
Officials said the directive aims to maintain law and order, preserve the sanctity of the festival, and prevent untoward incidents during the massive procession. The Kalash Shobha Yatra began at 1:00 pm from Salandi Ghat and will culminate in a Maha Yagya at Gandhi Ground, where lakhs of devotees are expected to participate.
The administration also ordered the closure of meat shops to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival. Police and excise officials have been deployed to monitor compliance and conduct checks across Basudevpur.
Authorities appealed to license holders and the public to strictly follow the Dry Day order. They emphasised that any violation will invite legal action. The decision reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring peaceful and orderly celebrations of Ram Navami.
