Puri, July 15 (UDN): With lakhs of devotees expected to throng the Holy City for the annual Rath Yatra, the Puri district administration has unveiled a comprehensive traffic and security plan aimed at ensuring seamless crowd movement and hassle-free travel throughout the festival.

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As part of the arrangements, 30 designated parking zones have been earmarked across Puri for vehicles arriving from different parts of the state and the country. The parking capacity has been expanded this year with the addition of six new parking locations, reflecting the expected rise in pilgrim turnout.

To strengthen traffic regulation and public safety, authorities have installed 244 CCTV cameras at strategic junctions and sensitive locations across the city. The surveillance network will be supplemented by three drones, which will provide real-time aerial monitoring of traffic flow, crowd density and other critical areas, enabling faster response to emergencies.

In a major traffic restriction, the Bada Danda (Grand Road)—the route of the chariot procession—and all roads leading to the Shree Jagannath Temple will remain vehicle-free during the festival. The measure is intended to ensure the safe movement of devotees and facilitate the smooth conduct of the world-famous chariot festival.

Traffic personnel will be deployed across major entry and exit points to regulate vehicular movement and guide pilgrims to the designated parking areas. Officials have appealed to visitors to follow traffic advisories, use the notified parking facilities and cooperate with law enforcement personnel to help maintain order during the celebrations.

The elaborate traffic management strategy forms a key part of the administration’s preparations for Rath Yatra 2026, with a focus on enhancing safety, reducing congestion and providing a comfortable pilgrimage experience for the millions expected to participate in the grand annual festival.