Preparations in full swing for grand Puri Rath Yatra 2025

Bhubaneswar: As the world-renowned Puri Rath Yatra 2025 approaches, the Odisha government has intensified its efforts to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the Jagannath Rath Yatra. A high-level review meeting was held today under the leadership of Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja at Kharavela Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, to evaluate the progress of preparations.

Key Officials Discuss Law and Order, Infrastructure, and Public Amenities

The meeting saw the participation of senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Satyabrata Sahu, DGP Shri Y.B. Khurania, Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Dr. Aravind Kumar Padhee, and Puri District Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain. The Puri Superintendent of Police, Shri Vineet Agrawal, provided a detailed presentation on security arrangements, crowd management, and VIP arrangements for the event.

Dr. Padhee informed that Rath construction in Puri is in full progress, with essential wood procurement underway. Special attention is being given to ensure that Rath pulling takes place without unnecessary crowd congestion in front of the chariots.

Sanitation, Water Supply, and Accommodation for Devotees

A major focus was placed on public amenities. The Puri Municipality will ensure sufficient drinking water supply through water tankers, especially in crowded and sensitive zones. More than 15 such areas have already been identified, and high-capacity diesel pumps are being installed to handle potential waterlogging during monsoon rains.

Temporary mobile toilets and fiber restrooms will be installed across the city for pilgrims. Sanitation workers will be deployed to maintain hygiene. Additionally, temporary camps with tubewells and water facilities will be set up for police personnel and volunteers.

Special Traffic and VIP Management Measures

Traffic control, vehicle parking, and CCTV surveillance are among the top priorities for the administration. Strategic locations along the Rath Yatra route will be equipped with surveillance systems to manage the crowds effectively. Special passes and VIP seating arrangements are being planned for dignitaries.

The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra also includes important rituals such as Snana Purnima, Gundicha Yatra, and Bahuda Yatra, drawing millions of devotees and tourists each year. Thus, a special focus is being given to pilgrim safety, healthcare, and emergency services.

Government Ensures Devotee-Friendly Festival

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja stressed the importance of maintaining law and order throughout the chariot festival and instructed the police administration and related departments to work in close coordination. The objective is to avoid any disruption and ensure that the Puri Rath Yatra 2025 is conducted with discipline, safety, and devotional spirit.

This year, the administration is also promoting Puri Rath Yatra tourism, urging pilgrims and visitors to follow guidelines and cooperate with authorities for a smooth pilgrimage experience.