Puri, July 13 (UDN): With the annual Rath Yatra drawing near, the Puri district administration has intensified preparations to ensure the smooth, safe and orderly conduct of one of India’s largest religious festivals. This year, nearly 200 Executive Magistrates have been deployed across key locations in the pilgrim town to strengthen crowd management and oversee essential services during the celebrations.

Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida said the administration has adopted a comprehensive approach to festival management, with special emphasis on public safety, traffic regulation, emergency response and the convenience of the lakhs of devotees expected to visit the holy city from across the country and abroad.

“Extensive arrangements have been made for Rath Yatra 2026. The deployment of around 200 Executive Magistrates at strategic locations will help ensure effective coordination and crowd regulation. We have also substantially expanded drinking water facilities and other public amenities for devotees,” the Collector said.

The administration has enhanced infrastructure across the city, including drinking water points, sanitation facilities, medical assistance centres and emergency response mechanisms. Officials are also coordinating with police and other line departments to maintain law and order, regulate vehicular movement and provide uninterrupted essential services throughout the festival.

Meanwhile, preparations for the three majestic chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra are in their final stages. Traditional artisans continue to adorn the chariots with intricately crafted brass ornaments and vibrant decorative fabrics, preserving centuries-old customs associated with the festival.

Traditional brass artisan servitor Sagar Sahu Kansari said the decorations symbolise the divine grandeur of the deities. “The colourful coverings and ornaments transform the chariots into magnificent divine vehicles. Once the decorative cloth is draped, the chariots reflect the splendour and sacredness of the Rath Yatra,” he said.

Recognised as one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, the Rath Yatra attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year. The ceremonial procession, during which devotees pull the towering chariots through the Grand Road of Puri, remains the spiritual highlight of the festival.

With security personnel, magistrates, emergency response teams and volunteers deployed in large numbers, the district administration is aiming to ensure that this year’s Rath Yatra is conducted peacefully while upholding its rich religious traditions and cultural heritage.