Puri, July 15: The world-renowned Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri is set to commence on July 16. In preparation for the event, the police administration has implemented extensive arrangements. Alongside security measures, a comprehensive traffic plan has been devised to ensure smooth proceedings during the festival.
ADG Somendra Priyadarshi informed news agencies that the Odisha police have established 30 parking zones and are utilizing technology to manage the crowd effectively.
“We anticipate millions of devotees will visit the sacred city of Puri. One of the biggest challenges for the police is traffic management, especially since thousands of buses, cars, and two-wheelers will converge on this small town. Therefore, enhancing parking infrastructure has been our top priority. We have designated 30 parking spots within Puri,” he stated.
He explained that the parking areas have been categorized. Four of these zones are for two-wheelers, while 22 are allocated for four-wheelers. CCTV cameras have been installed at various locations to monitor the situation.
Somendra Priyadarshi emphasized that efforts will be made to inform devotees, allowing them to plan their entry into Puri accordingly. In addition to the 30 parking sites, they aim to convey information through technology, particularly via animated films, detailing the routes into Puri. Information will also be disseminated through LED displays, social media, and apps.
According to the ADG, LED displays have been installed on major routes leading to Puri, in addition to those within the city. The Bhubaneswar Police Commissionerate’s LED boards will also be utilized to broadcast traffic information. “We have coordinated with the Bhubaneswar Police Commissioner to specifically use their LED display boards for traffic-related updates,” he added.
A special control room has been established for traffic management, where video feeds from various locations will be analyzed to identify critical areas under pressure from crowds and vehicles, enabling timely intervention. DIG Vishal Singh will oversee traffic management, while Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur will be fully responsible for traffic arrangements, working closely with the Puri RTO.
The ADG urged the public to adhere to the advisories issued by the police. He noted that with the cooperation of the media and public discipline, traffic during the Rath Yatra can be managed more effectively.
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