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Emphasis on convenience and safety of devotees

Puri (Odisha) [भारत]July 12 (ANI): Chief Administrator of Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Arabinda K. Padhi reviewed the preparations for the ongoing Rath Yatra at Sri Jagannath Temple and Sri Gundicha Temple on Saturday. He said all necessary measures related to rituals, cleanliness, security, crowd management, drinking water, lighting and other essential services are being closely monitored.

Padhi said that arrangements are being made in coordination with the temple administration and the district administration to run the remaining programs of the Rath Yatra smoothly. Appealing to lakhs of devotees visiting Puri from across the country and abroad, Padhi urged everyone to strictly follow the guidelines and advisories issued by the administration. He requested the pilgrims to cooperate with the security personnel and volunteers, follow the prescribed movement routes and follow crowd management measures for their safety and smooth conduct of the festival.

"Our endeavor is to ensure that every devotee has a safe, comfortable and spiritually gratifying experience during the Rath Yatra and returns home with fond memories of the divine celebration of Lord Jagannath," Padhi said. The Shree Jagannath Temple administration, in coordination with the Odisha government and district authorities, continues to oversee elaborate arrangements as lakhs of devotees flock to the holy city to witness one of the world's largest and most prestigious chariot festivals.

CM Majhi held a high-level review meeting

Earlier on Saturday, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reviewed preparations for the annual Rath Yatra in Puri and directed officials to ensure elaborate security, smooth crowd management and seamless coordination between all departments for the festival. Chairing a high-level review meeting, the Chief Minister stressed the need for effective communication, efficient inter-departmental coordination and fool-proof arrangements to facilitate devotees attending the world famous Rath Yatra.

Extensive arrangements for security and facilities

Officials told the meeting that around 12,000 personnel of Odisha Police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), led by 19 senior IPS officers, will be deployed to oversee security and crowd management. The review also revealed that 1,700 bio-toilets, eight temporary hospitals, 473 CCTV cameras, 65 LED display screens and 16 permanent telecom towers have been installed as part of the festival arrangements.

The Chief Minister was further informed that special facilities have been created at the Gundicha Temple to ensure easy accessibility for senior citizens and persons with disabilities during the festival. CM Majhi directed officials to ensure that all arrangements are implemented efficiently so that devotees can participate in the Rath Yatra safely and without any inconvenience. (ANI)