Bhubaneswar: In a significant boost to security measures ahead of the annual Rath Yatra, the Puri Police have deployed an armoured vehicle ‘Raksaka’ at the Shree Jagannath Temple.
The move aims to ensure enhanced protection as lakhs of devotees are expected to converge in the holy city to witness the chariot festival of Lord Jagannath and His siblings.
The deployment was announced on Monday through the Puri Police’s official account on X (formerly Twitter).
Armoured vehicle “ରକ୍ଷକ” deployed at Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri to enhance security. A significant step towards strengthening safety and preparedness. pic.twitter.com/vAratlEhC2
— Puri Police (@SPPuri1) May 19, 2025
According to sources, ‘Raksaka’ is a state-of-the-art bulletproof vehicle equipped with roof-mounted light machine guns (LMGs), modern surveillance tools, and multiple security features.
Designed to withstand heavy artillery fire and explosive attacks, the vehicle is capable of operating in high-risk urban environments.
Special Tactical Unit (STU) commandos, trained in urban warfare, will operate the armoured vehicle during the festival.
The vehicle can accommodate five to six personnel and features a convertible roof for weapon deployment. A ballistic carpet offers protection against shrapnel and hand grenades, while reinforced glass and armoured steel shield it from AK-47 fire. The underbody is also fortified to resist improvised explosive device (IED) fragments.
Additional features include a rear-mounted camera system that provides live visuals on the driver’s LCD screen, and multiple firing ports for quick response during emergency scenarios. The vehicle remains operational even with damaged tyres, ensuring mobility under duress.
