Puri, July 24 (UDN): The sacred town of Puri has come alive with devotion as the Bahuda Yatra, the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra from the Gundicha Temple to the Srimandir, commenced on Friday. Lakhs of devotees have gathered along the Grand Road (Bada Danda) to witness the concluding phase of the world-famous annual Rath Yatra festival.
UDN_File
To ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the procession, the Odisha government has put in place extensive security, traffic and crowd-management measures across the pilgrim town. Hundreds of police personnel, rapid response teams and volunteers have been deployed at strategic locations to regulate pilgrim movement and maintain order throughout the event.
Elaborate Security and Traffic Arrangements
Authorities have created a comprehensive traffic management plan to handle the massive influx of devotees. As many as 31 designated parking zones have been established in and around Puri, with capacity for nearly 7,330 light motor vehicles and over 18,000 two-wheelers.
Special traffic diversions and entry regulations have also been introduced, particularly for vehicles approaching Puri from the Bhubaneswar side, to minimise congestion and facilitate uninterrupted movement during the festival.
Weather Remains a Concern
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across several parts of Odisha until July 28 due to an active southwest monsoon and a prevailing trough line. Authorities have advised devotees to remain cautious and make necessary preparations in view of the possibility of intermittent showers during the Bahuda Yatra.
Government Confident of Smooth Festival
Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan expressed confidence in the arrangements made for the return car festival, stating that the administration has taken all necessary steps to ensure disciplined darshan, effective crowd control and the safe completion of the Bahuda Yatra.
He reiterated that multiple departments are working in coordination to facilitate a peaceful and well-organised procession.