Puri, May 12 — With the annual Rath Yatra scheduled to begin on June 27, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania on Monday reviewed the security arrangements in Puri and formally introduced the riot-control vehicle 'Vajra' to bolster protection of the revered Shree Jagannath Temple.
'Vajra' Deployed for Jagannath Temple Security
The DGP inspected the 'Vajra' vehicle near the 12th-century temple before it was officially deployed to enhance the temple's protection. Officials stated that the vehicle will play a vital role in strengthening on-ground security as the festival draws near.Security Preparedness Nearing Final Stage
Khurania emphasized that police preparations for the Rath Yatra are nearing completion. “Senior officials from police headquarters attended the review meeting. We focused on the security inside and outside the temple,” he said.Key topics discussed included crowd management, traffic flow, emergency responses, and pilgrim safety. Special attention is also being given to coordination among various security units and the integration of modern surveillance tools.
Crowd Control and Monitoring Infrastructure
Taking to social media, the Odisha Police highlighted that the DGP held comprehensive discussions with senior officers on the management of Sannan Yatra and Rath Yatra, smooth darshan experiences, dignitary movements, and safe chariot pulling.He also assessed the deployment of CCTV cameras, rapid response units, and crowd control protocols. Officials confirmed that at least eight platoons (roughly 240 personnel) have been stationed around the temple complex, with plans to increase deployment closer to the festival.
Vigilance in Light of National Security Concerns
Security efforts are being intensified due to the broader national security context, especially following Operation Sindoor launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Though India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire across land, air, and sea, Khurania instructed that all security measures remain firmly in place.Marine Security and Coastal Preparedness
Apart from the temple security, the DGP also visited four marine police stations in Puri district to review their readiness. Measures such as lifeguard deployment along the beach and outreach initiatives for the fishing community were also reviewed.Earlier this month, a team of National Security Guard (NSG) commandos conducted a routine inspection as part of the standard security protocol for major religious events in the region.
The Rath Yatra, one of the most significant religious festivals in Odisha, will run for approximately two weeks and is expected to draw lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad.