Bhubaneswar: In the wake of the recent stampede mishap at Saradhabali, the Odisha Police has left no stone unturned to ensure a smooth and incident-free Bahuda Yatra, the return festival of sibling deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
According to reports, a massive security deployment comprising 6,000 state police personnel and 800 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel is on the ground to maintain law and order in the temple town. Senior police officers, led by DGP YB Khurania, are camping in Puri to oversee the arrangements.
To enhance surveillance, over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed across the city to monitor the crowd and prevent any untoward incidents. Special traffic arrangements have also been made in anticipation of a huge turnout, facilitated by favourable weather conditions.
A comprehensive security arrangement has been put in place for the Bahuda Yatra in Puri, with the deployment of Rapid Action Force, specially trained commandos, bomb disposal squads, sniffer dogs, anti-terrorist squads, coast guards, and NDRF personnel.
Four additional Director Generals of Police (DGPs), including DGP Y.B. Khurania, are overseeing the security arrangements. Crowd control measures have been implemented to prevent any untoward incidents during the chariot-pulling ceremony.
The Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration Arabinda Padhee, Collector Chanchal Rana, and Superintendent of Police Pinak Mishra are stationed at the Gundicha Temple, monitoring the rituals of the deities.
That apart, extensive arrangements, including traffic management, drinking water supply, electricity, security, and sanitation, have been made for the expected 1 million devotees. Comprehensive security measures have been implemented at key locations such as Puri Railway Station, Bada Danda, chariot routes, bus stands, temporary vehicle parking areas, and beaches.
