As lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad prepare to witness the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, the Odisha Commerce and Transport Department has rolled out a comprehensive set of passenger-friendly measures to make the sacred journey smooth, safe, and comfortable.
In a significant step towards modern traffic management, real-time traffic updates for the Puri route are being displayed through LED screens at Uttara Chowk and multiple strategic locations across Bhubaneswar.
This allows pilgrims to stay updated on traffic conditions and plan their travel accordingly, reducing delays and congestion.
Special care for the vulnerable
Two dedicated assistance centres have been set up at Malatipatpur and Talabania exclusively for divyangjan (persons with disabilities) and senior citizens.
These centres are fully equipped with wheelchairs, bio-toilets, comfortable rest areas, safe drinking water, and primary medical aid. From these centres, devotees can avail completely free shuttle buses and e-rickshaws that will ferry them directly to their destinations.
Traffic relief on Bhubaneswar-Puri corridor
To ease the massive movement of vehicles towards Puri, LED vans have been deployed at key junctions including Uttara Chowk and Lingipur in close coordination with Puri Police. These mobile displays provide live traffic status, helping pilgrims avoid crowded stretches and reach Puri with greater ease.
Rest, food and guidance
Temporary rest shelters have been arranged at various locations along the route, where free cooked meals are being served to provide relief to tired devotees. Special help desks and information centres are functioning round the clock to guide pilgrims.
For any vehicle-related emergencies, breakdown services and special cranes have been stationed at strategic points. Road safety enforcement teams, supported by the AIEMS system, are actively monitoring violations to maintain order on the roads.
The department has appealed to all road users to strictly follow traffic rules and drive responsibly so that everyone’s journey remains safe.
These thoughtful and innovative arrangements reflect the Odisha government’s strong commitment to ensuring a memorable and hassle-free Rath Yatra experience for millions of devotees.
