Puri, July 5 (UDN): The district administration has prohibited the distribution of cooked food along the Bada Danda (Grand Road) in Puri during the ongoing Rath Yatra to ensure smooth crowd management, maintain public hygiene and facilitate the uninterrupted movement of devotees.

The restriction has been imposed in view of the massive congregation expected during the world-famous chariot festival, where lakhs of pilgrims gather to witness the annual procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.

Officials said serving or distributing cooked food on the Grand Road often leads to crowding and obstruction of pedestrian movement, hampering traffic regulation and emergency response during the festival. The prohibition is aimed at preventing congestion and ensuring the safety of devotees.

The administration has directed individuals, voluntary organisations and charitable groups intending to undertake food distribution to do so only at designated locations outside the Bada Danda with prior permission from the competent authorities.

District officials warned that any violation of the order would invite appropriate legal action under the relevant provisions in force during the Rath Yatra.

The administration has appealed to devotees, social organisations and volunteers to cooperate with the restrictions and adhere to the guidelines issued for the smooth and orderly conduct of the festival.

Extensive arrangements, including deployment of security personnel, traffic regulation measures, sanitation drives and emergency medical services, have been put in place to ensure a safe and hassle-free Rath Yatra for pilgrims visiting the holy town.