Bhubaneswar, July 18: The Director General of Police (DGP) of Odisha, Y.B. Khurania, has advised elderly devotees and those in poor health to avoid traveling to Puri during the ongoing Rath Yatra due to the overwhelming crowds.
In a media interaction, Khurania urged pilgrims to refrain from bringing children aged one and two years to witness the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. This recommendation was made with their safety and health in mind, given the large number of attendees.
Khurania stated, “Bada Danda (Grand Road) is filled with devotees. Millions are present in Bada Danda and Puri city. A significant influx of people is arriving from various directions. The atmosphere of the festival is filled with enthusiasm and joy.”
The DGP also encouraged pilgrims to stay updated with the advisories issued periodically and to strictly adhere to the guidelines. He assured that extensive arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of this year’s Rath Yatra.
Meanwhile, the Puri district police have launched a special anti-snatching operation during the Rath Yatra, resulting in the arrest of 103 snatchers and the recovery of 203 stolen mobile phones from devotees.
In light of the large number of attendees, Puri police have initiated special campaigns to prevent snatching, pickpocketing, and other property-related crimes.
During the Rath Yatra, dedicated police teams are monitoring Bada Danda, the Shri Jagannath Temple complex, beaches, bus stands, railway stations, parking areas, and other crowded locations around the clock. Using CCTV cameras, modern technology, and intelligence, they are identifying and apprehending suspicious individuals promptly.
Authorities have urged all devotees and the general public to remain vigilant regarding their mobile phones, wallets, gold jewelry, and other valuables in crowded areas.
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