Odisha Government Demands Flawless Preparations for Puri Rath Yatra
The Odisha state government issued a firm directive on Tuesday. All departments must learn from past mistakes. They need to ensure zero-error arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Rath Yatra in Puri. The festival is scheduled for July 16.
Chief Secretary Stresses Learning from Past Errors
Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired the first preparatory meeting. She stressed that no stone should be left unturned. Garg urged every department to identify errors from previous Rath Yatra celebrations. She instructed them to implement corrective measures immediately.
"Every department should start drawing up foolproof plans," Garg said. "They must keep past lapses in mind." She underscored that real-time monitoring and effective crowd management would be critical to success.
Advanced Planning After Tragic Stampede
The urgency follows a tragic stampede on June 29, 2025. Three people died near the chariots in front of the Gundicha Temple. This happened on the third day of the Rath Yatra. The incident raised serious concerns about crowd control.
Last year, authorities deployed AI-powered cameras and substantial manpower. Despite this, the security cordon was breached. On June 27, the chariot of Lord Jagannath could not be pulled until evening due to an overwhelming influx of devotees.
Anu Garg, then development commissioner, led the administrative probe into the stampede. Her inquiry report cited negligence by seven police officers. It also flagged the poor functioning of AI cameras and the integrated command and control centre.
"Based on my inquiry's recommendations, I have advised all departments accordingly," Garg stated. "We will also take some long-term measures." These measures will address issues like accommodation for police personnel and provision of toilets.
Extended Planning Window and Key Directives
Traditionally, state-level preparations begin four months before the festival. This year, the exercise was advanced by two months. The extended six-month window aims to overcome past shortcomings.
Garg specifically instructed the Odisha police to put foolproof systems in place. She directed the forest department to ensure timely supply of timber. Each year, 865 logs of different species are required to construct the three chariots.
The meeting discussed several other crucial issues:
- Devotee convenience and safety
- Healthcare facilities and drinking water
- Sanitation and accommodation arrangements
- Transportation logistics
- Timely conduct of rituals
High-Level Officials Attend Meeting
Several senior officials attended the preparatory meeting. DGP Y B Khurania was present. Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Hemant Sharma participated. Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Arabinda Kumar Padhee, also attended.
The state government is clearly taking no chances this year. The directive for zero-error arrangements reflects a determined approach. Officials want to prevent any repeat of last year's tragic events.
