The second coordination meeting for the 2025 Rath Yatra was held today at the Town Hall in Puri, chaired by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.
The meeting focused on ensuring a smooth, safe, and well-coordinated festival, with extensive arrangements to accommodate an expected 15 lakh devotees.
With the festival approaching, the administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims while prioritizing safety, health, and infrastructure readiness.
Health and Safety Measures:
Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling addressed concerns about COVID-19, reassuring attendees that the current low-variant strain poses minimal risk. With only 49 cases reported statewide and 34 active cases, he advised those with symptoms like cold or cough to avoid crowded areas. To ensure medical preparedness, over 300 doctors will be deployed, and air-conditioned beds will be available at the main hospital and community health centres to combat heatwave conditions. Additionally, an ambulance corridor will be established for emergencies.
Transportation Arrangements:
To facilitate the influx of devotees, 365 special trains will operate during the festival, supplemented by 35 additional ticket counters and 10 ATVM machines. Over 230-250 extra buses will be deployed, with 18 designated parking zones and free auto-rickshaw services from the parking areas. Dedicated parking for tourist buses at Malatipatpur and passenger buses at Talabania during key events like Rath Yatra, Bahuda, and Sunabesha has also been planned.
Infrastructure and Utilities:
The administration has prioritised uninterrupted power supply, with a master control room at Talabania. Clean drinking water will be ensured with 20 lakh water bottles and pouches. About 90% of drain cleaning is complete, and road repairs, mosquito control, and streetlight maintenance are underway. High-capacity pumps will be deployed at 14 waterlogging-prone areas to manage monsoon challenges. AI-powered CCTV cameras and an integrated command control centre will enhance security, while sprinklers and lifeguards will be stationed to address heat and crowd management.
Chariot Construction and Gundicha Temple Upgrades:
Timber for the chariots has been sourced, including 815 logs from Dhenkanal, Bargarh, Khordha, Nayagarh, and other divisions, along with sandalwood from Tamil Nadu. Approximately 80% of the chariot construction is complete, with the remaining work set to finish on schedule. The Gundicha Temple has undergone renovation, and discussions are ongoing to reconsider relocating the Pallishree Mela to the beach.
Insurance and Local Arrangements:
From June 26 to July 9, a Rs 5 lakh insurance cover per person will be provided in Puri’s municipal area, as announced by the Shree Jagannath Temple’s chief administrator, Arabinda K Padhee. Special arrangements for Puri residents, including access through the western gate and dedicated darshan at Gundicha Temple, were proposed by MLA Sunil Mohanty.
Ministerial Oversight and Coordination:
Law Minister Harichandan emphasised collective cooperation, stating, “Lord Jagannath Himself oversees His festival; we merely facilitate with mutual support.” He directed departments to complete the remaining 20% of preparations before the festival. The meeting saw participation from key figures, including Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Puri MP Sambit Patra, and several MLAs, along with temple and district officials.
With comprehensive planning, from security to sanitation, Puri is poised to host a grand and orderly Rath Yatra, ensuring a spiritually enriching experience for devotees worldwide.
