Bhubaneswar: Odisha Police has put in place an extensive security and crowd-management plan for the upcoming Debasnana Purnima celebrations in Puri, with 72 platoons of police personnel set to be deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of the annual ritual on June 29.
Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania recently reviewed the security, traffic, and crowd-control arrangements ahead of the festival, also known as Snana Yatra, one of the most important rituals associated with Lord Jagannath and a key precursor to the world-famous Rath Yatra.
The festival attracts lakhs of devotees from across the country, prompting authorities to strengthen surveillance and public safety measures throughout the pilgrim town. In addition to the 72 platoons, senior officers including Superintendents of Police (SPs), Additional SPs, Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), and Inspectors will be deployed at strategic locations to oversee operations.
Officials said advanced CCTV surveillance systems will be used to monitor crowd movement and sensitive areas. Separate barricading arrangements will be put in place to facilitate orderly darshan and regulate pedestrian flow. Anti-snatching squads and special crack teams will also be stationed across key locations to prevent crime and respond swiftly to any security concerns.
Special emphasis is being placed on crowd regulation, traffic management, emergency response, and coordination among various agencies involved in the event. Authorities are working to ensure smooth movement of devotees while minimizing congestion in and around the temple town.
The district administration, police, health services, fire personnel, and other government departments will operate in close coordination to manage the large influx of pilgrims expected during the festival.
Officials expressed confidence that the comprehensive security arrangements and multi-agency coordination will help ensure a safe, orderly, and seamless Debasnana Purnima celebration, paving the way for the subsequent Rath Yatra festivities.
-OdishaAge
