Puri: The holy city of Puri has been placed under extensive security cover as the Bahuda Yatra, the sacred return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra from the Shree Gundicha Temple to the Srimandir, begins today. Lakhs of devotees have converged on the pilgrim town to witness one of the most significant events of the annual Rath Yatra festival.
To ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the procession, the Odisha government has put in place elaborate security, traffic and crowd management measures across the city, particularly along the Grand Road (Bada Danda), where the three majestic chariots will make their return journey.
Massive Security Deployment Across Puri
Authorities have deployed a large number of security personnel at strategic locations to manage the massive influx of pilgrims and maintain law and order during the festival.
Special emphasis has been placed on crowd control, regulating pedestrian movement, ensuring smooth chariot pulling and maintaining uninterrupted communication among security agencies. Police personnel, administrative officials and emergency response teams have been stationed along the chariot route to respond swiftly to any situation.
Officials said the extensive arrangements are aimed at ensuring a safe, orderly and spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees participating in the Bahuda Yatra.
31 Dedicated Parking Zones For Pilgrims
To ease traffic congestion, the district administration has established 31 dedicated parking zones in and around Puri for vehicles arriving during the festival.
According to officials, the parking facilities can accommodate approximately:
- 7,330 light motor vehicles
- More than 18,000 two-wheelers
In addition to parking facilities, special traffic diversions and vehicle regulation measures have been implemented to facilitate smooth movement into and out of the pilgrim town.
Authorities have also introduced dedicated traffic arrangements for vehicles entering Puri from the Bhubaneswar side to minimise congestion and ensure hassle-free access for devotees.
Rain Forecast Keeps Administration On Alert
Weather remains a significant concern during this year’s Bahuda Yatra.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across several parts of Odisha until July 28 under the influence of an active southwest monsoon and an existing trough line.
The possibility of rainfall during the chariot procession has prompted authorities to remain on high alert. Disaster response teams, emergency services and civic agencies have been instructed to stay prepared for any weather-related challenges to ensure the uninterrupted conduct of the festival.
Devotees have also been advised to remain cautious and follow official instructions while participating in the celebrations.
Government Confident Of Smooth Festival Management
Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan reiterated that the government has made comprehensive arrangements for the successful conduct of the Bahuda Yatra.
Rejecting allegations of mismanagement during the earlier Rath Yatra procession, the minister stated that adequate measures have been taken to ensure disciplined darshan, effective crowd management and the safe return of the Holy Trinity to the Srimandir.
The Bahuda Yatra marks the concluding phase of the world-famous Rath Yatra festival, symbolising the return of Lord Jagannath and His siblings to their abode after their stay at the Gundicha Temple. With heightened security, extensive traffic planning and continuous weather monitoring, authorities aim to ensure that lakhs of devotees can participate in the sacred occasion safely and peacefully.
