Odisha Government Limits Cordon Passes for Rath Yatra to Ensure Safety
Odisha govt to issue fewer 'cordon passes' to prevent overcrowding during Jagannath chariot pulling
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Odisha government has decided to issue fewer 'cordon passes' for the upcoming Rath Yatra in Puri to prevent overcrowding, following last year's fatalities. Key measures include enhanced crowd management, infrastructure improvements, and health facilities to accommodate the expected influx of devotees starting July 16.
- 01Fewer 'cordon passes' will be issued to control crowding during Rath Yatra.
- 02The festival is set to begin on July 16, with significant preparations underway.
- 03Infrastructure projects, including the Jagannath Ballav Pilgrim Centre, are nearing completion.
- 04Emergency health facilities will be established to support the influx of visitors.
- 05Traffic management and sanitation measures are prioritized to ensure a smooth festival experience.
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In preparation for the Rath Yatra festival starting on July 16 in Puri, Odisha, the state government has decided to issue fewer 'cordon passes' to limit overcrowding around the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. This decision follows last year's tragic incident where three people lost their lives due to overcrowding. A high-level review meeting led by Chief Secretary Anu Garg emphasized the need for effective crowd management and timely completion of security and infrastructure arrangements. Key initiatives include restricting food distribution on Grand Road to maintain cleanliness, enhancing traffic management, and setting up emergency surveillance with CCTV cameras. Additionally, eight temporary hospitals will be established to provide immediate health care. Major infrastructure projects, such as the Jagannath Ballav Pilgrim Centre and the Matiapada overbridge, are nearing completion to accommodate the expected surge of devotees. The state administration is also planning to install around 1,600 temporary toilets and has identified locations for high-capacity water pumps to manage potential heavy rainfall.
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The measures taken by the Odisha government aim to enhance safety and convenience for the millions of devotees expected during Rath Yatra, thereby improving the overall festival experience.
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