Rath Yatra Begins Today in Puri; Lord Jagannath and Siblings to Grant Darshan to Devotees

Puri. Preparations for the annual Rath Yatra, commencing Thursday in the coastal city of Puri, Odisha, are complete. Three magnificent chariots belonging to Lord Jagannath and his siblings are ready to roll onto Grand Road amidst tight security. Approximately 14,000 personnel, including 15 companies of Central Armed Forces, have been deployed to ensure security.

An official from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) announced that the construction and decoration of the three chariots—Lord Balabhadra’s Taladhwaja, Goddess Subhadra’s Darpadalan, and Lord Jagannath’s Nandighosha—have been completed. After receiving the Agyan Mala (divine consent garland) from the deities, the chariots were moved to the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate) of the 12th-century temple. The official stated that the three chariots are currently stationed on Grand Road in front of the temple under heavy security.

Tight Security Arrangements
Lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad will witness the chariot-pulling ritual. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Sanjay Kumar stated that security arrangements for the event are foolproof. Fifteen companies of Central Armed Forces (comprising about 1,500 personnel)—including NSG and RAF commandos, as well as CRPF and BSF troops—along with 13,000 police personnel, have already been deployed. Additionally, 500 lifeguards have been stationed along the coastline.

Aerial Surveillance via Drones
Odisha DGP Y.B. Khurania stated that a multi-layered security plan, including comprehensive surveillance, has been devised for Puri’s annual Rath Yatra. He noted that the focus this year would be on crowd control, traffic management, and emergency response, with aerial security being maintained through the use of drones and anti-drone equipment. He stated that a joint patrolling arrangement involving the Indian Navy, the Indian Coast Guard, and the Odisha Marine Police has been initiated at sea, and quick-response teams have been deployed on the vessels.