The Odisha government has rolled out an extensive preparedness strategy for this year’s Rath Yatra in Puri, introducing a first-of-its-kind Dual Management Plan aimed at ensuring a safe, smooth, and incident-free festival. The plan has been designed to address both extreme heat conditions and monsoon-related challenges during the annual grand congregation of devotees.

Zero Casualty, Zero Drowning Target

With the objective of achieving “Zero Casualty” and “Zero Drowning” during the festival, the state administration has prepared a comprehensive safety blueprint. The strategy received approval during a high-level review meeting chaired by the Director General of Fire Services and Emergency Response.

Authorities have emphasized that every possible measure is being taken to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of lakhs of devotees expected to visit the holy city.

Special Measures to Combat Heatwave Conditions

To provide relief to devotees from intense heat and humidity during the Rath Yatra, the administration will deploy 18 to 20 dedicated water-sprinkling vehicles along the Grand Road (Bada Danda). These vehicles will regularly spray water to reduce surface temperatures and improve comfort levels for pilgrims.

In addition, high-capacity modern blowers will be installed at strategic locations to enhance air circulation and help people cope with the humid weather.

Advanced Flood Management System in Place

Considering the possibility of heavy monsoon showers during the festival, authorities have also strengthened flood-management arrangements.

If waterlogging occurs on the Grand Road, advanced pumps capable of discharging 4,200 litres of water per minute will be deployed. Officials believe this rapid-response mechanism will help prevent disruption to rituals and public movement during adverse weather conditions.

Enhanced Vigilance Along Puri Beach

Apart from crowd management on the Grand Road, special attention is being given to safety at Puri Beach.

To prevent drowning incidents, 25 lifeguards from the Fire Services Department have received international-standard training. The Tourism Department, in collaboration with emergency response teams, will establish five first-aid centres along the beach and deploy specialized life-saving ambulances for quick medical assistance.

Extensive Healthcare Arrangements for Devotees

The Health Department has also made elaborate preparations ahead of the festival season.

A stock of 300 units of blood will be kept ready before Snana Yatra, with storage facilities ensuring availability for up to 45 days. Additionally, 150 beds have been arranged in the new building of the district headquarters hospital, while 80 additional beds have been reserved at the Infectious Disease Hospital.

Along the Grand Road, 30 first-aid centres and eight temporary hospitals will be operational throughout the festival. Qualified MBBS doctors and medical teams will remain on duty to provide immediate treatment and emergency care to devotees.

Administration Focused on Devotee Safety

With millions of pilgrims expected to participate in the world-famous Rath Yatra, the Odisha government has adopted a multi-layered preparedness approach that combines disaster management, healthcare readiness, crowd control, and beach safety measures. Officials remain confident that the comprehensive arrangements will help ensure a safe, secure, and memorable Rath Yatra for all devotees.