The Odisha Government has declared a holiday in Sambalpur on June 20 for the famous Sital Sasthi festival.
All government offices and educational institutions in the sub-division will remain closed as per the notification issued by the Northern RDC.
Meanwhile, Sambalpur Police have deployed 80 platoons of security personnel to ensure the peaceful and smooth conduct of the festival. Superintendent of Police Mukesh Kumar Bhamoo announced that a multi-layered security plan is in place, supported by seven Additional SPs, 21 DSPs, 46 Inspectors, and 106 Sub-Inspectors/Assistant Sub-Inspectors.
The festival, which began on June 14, will witness peak celebrations between June 18 and June 20. Large crowds are expected to gather for major rituals and processions. Police have coordinated with local “pada” committees to streamline arrangements and manage crowd movement.
Special traffic plans have been prepared, with designated parking areas and identified routes for incoming devotees to avoid congestion. Drinking water facilities have been arranged at key locations to assist visitors.
Authorities have also engaged former officials familiar with the event to support smooth conduct. CCTV surveillance has been strengthened across important areas of the city to monitor crowd movement and enhance security.
A total of 33 marriage processions will be organised during the festival, including 28 within Sambalpur Municipal Corporation limits. The celebrations will feature six grand baraat processions and 12 homecoming processions in Sambalpur town.
