The iconic Rath Yatra in Puri, scheduled for June 27, 2025, is set to draw lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad. To ensure a flawless, secure, and disciplined festival, Odisha’s Director General of Police (DGP), Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, chaired a high-level meeting at the DGP’s camp office in Bhubaneswar today, outlining robust arrangements for the event.
The Rath Yatra, one of the world’s grandest chariot festivals, celebrates Lord Jagannath’s annual sojourn alongside Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. With rituals like Nabajoubana Darshan, Bahuda Yatra, and Suna Besha attracting massive crowds, the Odisha Police is leaving no stone unturned to safeguard devotees and maintain order.
For the first time, an Integrated Control Room will be established at Puri Town Police Station, equipped with advanced technology to monitor the festival. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based cameras will be installed at key locations, including Uttar Chhak, Puri-Konark Road, and major city intersections, to streamline traffic and enhance security. “These measures will ensure better crowd and traffic management, offering devotees a hassle-free experience,” DGP Khurania stated.
To counter potential threats, joint patrolling by the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and Odisha Police Marine Wing will secure the coastline. Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) will be deployed on ships, while drones and anti-drone systems will guard against aerial risks. An Anti-Terrorist Squad and a Rakshak vehicle will also be stationed in Puri, with more police personnel deployed than in previous years.
Starting Sunday evening, all districts will launch special drives to curb crime. Hotels, lodges, temples, bus stands, railway stations, and dharamshalas will undergo thorough checks to ensure public safety. The DGP emphasised proactive vigilance to prevent any untoward incidents during the festival.
To ease public movement, a dedicated mobile app has been launched, providing real-time updates on traffic advisories, parking spots, road congestion, and alternate routes. Road dividers, delineators, and designated traffic zones will further streamline vehicle flow. Temporary police outposts and stricter coastal patrolling will bolster security, while the Railway Police, in coordination with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), will secure railway stations.
Anticipating large crowds, the police are prepared to handle potential stampede situations and ensure swift resolutions. Special arrangements, including a dedicated helipad for VVIPs, accommodation for police personnel, disciplined chariot pulling, and barricading, were discussed to facilitate a smooth festival. Coordination with the district administration will ensure quick resolution of any devotee-related issues.
DGP Khurania urged the public to cooperate with authorities to make the Rath Yatra a grand success. “The devotion of millions converges in Puri during this festival. With collective effort, we aim to make it a safe and memorable experience,” he said.
The meeting saw participation from senior officials, including Director (Intelligence) R.P. Koche, Additional DGPs, IGs, DIGs, and Puri SP Vinit Agrawal, reflecting the state’s commitment to a secure Rath Yatra.
As Puri prepares to host this global spectacle, Odisha Police’s meticulous planning promises a festival that balances devotion, tradition, and safety.
