The Odisha Police has put in place an extensive security and crowd management plan for the upcoming Rath Yatra 2026 in Puri, with the deployment of 15 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and nearly 13,000 state police personnel.
Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania reviewed the preparations during a high-level meeting in Puri and said the administration is fully geared up to ensure a safe, smooth and incident-free festival.
Also read: How YB Khurania Climbed Every Rung of Policing Before Becoming Odisha’s DGP
Massive Security Deployment for Rath Yatra
Addressing senior police officers after the review meeting, DGP Khurania said 15 companies of CAPF, including the CRPF, BSF and Rapid Action Force (RAF), will assist Odisha Police in maintaining security during the annual chariot festival.
Around 13,000 state police personnel will also be stationed across Puri to manage traffic, regulate crowds, maintain law and order and assist the lakhs of devotees expected to attend the festival on July 16.
Experienced Officers Assigned Key Responsibilities
The DGP said only experienced officers have been entrusted with crowd management responsibilities, particularly for regulating traffic and ensuring smooth movement of devotees during the procession.
He instructed officers to adopt a courteous and service-oriented approach while dealing with pilgrims and emphasised that the safety and convenience of devotees must remain the top priority.
New Parking Facilities to Ease Traffic
To handle the anticipated rush, the administration has developed new parking facilities at eight locations across Puri.
Police have also made elaborate arrangements to facilitate smooth darshan and the uninterrupted movement of the three chariots during the festival.
Cyber Rath Launched for Online Safety
In a new initiative ahead of Rath Yatra 2026, Odisha Police has launched a dedicated Cyber Rath to spread awareness about cybercrime among tourists, pilgrims, hotel owners and local residents.
The mobile awareness vehicle will educate people on safe online practices, help prevent cyber fraud and encourage immediate reporting of cyber-related offences during the festival.
Officials said the campaign aims to strengthen digital safety alongside physical security during one of India’s largest religious gatherings.
With multi-layered security arrangements, enhanced traffic planning and cyber awareness initiatives, Odisha Police is preparing for the smooth conduct of one of the country’s biggest annual festivals.
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