The Odisha Police Traffic Control Centre, Puri, has announced a comprehensive traffic management plan for the upcoming Rath Yatra 2026, scheduled for July 16.
With lakhs of devotees expected, the arrangements focus on mobility, parking, surveillance, and public convenience.
A total of 30 parking places have been designated, including 22 for four‑wheelers (capacity 7,730), four for two‑wheelers (capacity 15,000), and four for buses (capacity 750). Six new parking zones have been added compared to 2025, raising overall capacity by 2,100. Special parking facilities for pass holders have also been expanded with an extra floor at JBPC.
To ensure smooth flow, 1,645 signages (permanent and temporary) have been installed, alongside multiple LED displays and mobile LED units providing real‑time traffic updates. Vehicle inflow and outflow are being monitored manually and through AI‑based systems.
For public convenience, bulk SMS alerts will share congestion updates, particularly for Malatipatpur and Batgaon. 73 traffic aid posts have been set up across Puri, with two model posts at Talabania and Malatipatpur offering facilities for senior citizens and specially‑abled devotees.
Surveillance has been strengthened with 244 CCTV cameras and three drones monitoring traffic. A No Vehicle Zone will be enforced from midnight on July 16 to midnight on July 17 across the Grand Road and adjoining stretches leading to the Jagannath Temple, as notified by the District Magistrate‑cum‑Collector, Puri.
Officials emphasised that these measures aim to ensure a disciplined, safe, and hassle‑free experience for devotees during the grand festival.
