Bhubaneswar, 27 June (H.S.): The Puri Police have put in place a comprehensive multi-layered security and crowd management plan, including large-scale CCTV surveillance, traffic regulation, and sector-wise deployment of personnel, ahead of the Deva Snana Purnima festival at the Shree Jagannath Temple.
Puri Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh said that lakhs of devotees are expected to visit the pilgrim town for the annual ritual, prompting elaborate arrangements both inside and outside the temple to ensure smooth and orderly conduct of the event.
As part of the security measures, more than 300 CCTV cameras have been installed at key locations across the temple and surrounding areas to monitor crowd movement and maintain law and order. Of these, 52 cameras have been installed inside the temple, 250 in the surrounding areas, and 30 at Market Chhak, the SP said.
Police personnel have been deployed across 14 sectors within the temple premises to manage the expected heavy influx of devotees. Additional facilities, including drinking water points and extra shoe stands, have also been arranged for public convenience.
On traffic management, Singh said two-wheelers coming from Bhubaneswar will be allowed entry via Harekrushnapur Chhak towards Atharanala and Medical Chhak. Designated parking facilities have been arranged at the Market Complex and Jagannath Ballav Pilgrim Centre (JBPC), while Digabareni parking will cater to visitors heading to the sea beach. A detailed traffic advisory has already been issued.
Vehicular movement on roads leading to the Shree Jagannath Temple has been restricted to prevent congestion during the festival period. Devotees will enter the shrine through the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate) and exit via the North Gate to ensure smooth crowd flow.
In addition to police deployment, NCC cadets, civil defence teams, fire services personnel, and ambulances will be stationed across the town to assist in emergency response and crowd control operations.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
