Bhubaneswar: Amid the ongoing sacred Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, a massive influx of devotees and vehicles has caused severe traffic congestion on the Bhubaneswar-Puri stretch of National Highway 316.
The Odisha Police has issued a Traffic Advisory warning of a very heavy inflow of vehicles from Bhubaneswar to Puri. According to officials, the waiting time at Malatipatpur is currently around 1.5 hours. Devotees have been requested to wait for further traffic updates and avoid starting their journey from Bhubaneswar until congestion eases.
In response to the overwhelming crowd, authorities have implemented major changes in traffic management. All vehicles travelling from Bhubaneswar to Puri are now being diverted via the Malatipatpur flyover towards Talabania. However, this rerouting has led to a severe traffic jam at Malatipatpur, with vehicles taking nearly one hour to cross the stretch.
The situation is compounded by the current weather conditions, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has simultaneously issued a nowcast warning for moderate rain with one or two intense spells and lightning in Puri over the next few hours.
Meanwhile, Odisha Police urged devotees to cooperate and follow traffic advisories for a safe and smooth journey. Pilgrims have been advised to stay informed, plan their trips carefully, and keep their mobile phones charged while monitoring official updates.
