Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards strengthening security, the Ratha Khala — the sacred site where the grand chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are constructed for the annual Rath Yatra — will be placed under continuous CCTV monitoring.
According to officials, 12 CCTV cameras will be installed at the Ratha Khala, including two advanced PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) cameras. These PTZ cameras can rotate, tilt and zoom in from different angles and distances, allowing close monitoring of activities across the sprawling construction area.
The decision has been taken with a special focus on the security of the Ratha Khala and to ensure smooth, incident-free construction work. The cameras will be installed temporarily from April 20 to July 15, coinciding with the start of chariot construction on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya on April 20 till the completion of the work.
Similarly, for the upcoming Chandan Yatra, 14 CCTV cameras will be installed at the Chandan Chakada, including two PTZ cameras. These will remain operational from April 20 to May 10, covering the entire period of the 21-day festival. The primary objective is to ensure the safety of thousands of devotees who participate in the sacred boat procession of the deities.
All the cameras will be directly linked to the police control room, where officials will keep round-the-clock vigil. Senior police and temple administration officials stated that these measures are part of a broader strategy to enhance security and crowd management during the important pre-Rath Yatra rituals.
