Bhubaneswar, 22 July (H.S.): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhavan to assess preparations for the upcoming Bahuda Yatra of Lord Jagannath, scheduled for July 24. He emphasized that there will be no compromise on law and order and security arrangements during the festival.

The Chief Minister directed officials to place special focus on crowd management and seamless information flow, ensuring the safety and convenience of lakhs of devotees expected to participate in the return chariot festival. He also appealed to devotees to strictly follow the guidelines issued by the administration and police.

Reviewing the conduct of the ongoing Rath Yatra, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that rituals have been carried out smoothly so far despite challenging weather conditions, including heavy rains and humidity.He appreciated the dedication of servitors, officials, and staff, praising their commitment and teamwork in ensuring the festival's successful organizing.

Officials informed that the district administration and police in Puri remain on high alert, closely monitoring key events such as Pahandi, chariot pulling, Dakshina Moda, and Adapa Mandap darshan, with senior officials supervising arrangements on the ground.

Highlighting the importance of scientific crowd monitoring, the Chief Minister suggested using CCTV-based surveillance integrated with the Command and Control System to track crowd density in real time and respond promptly to emerging situations. He also directed authorities to ensure smooth conduct of upcoming rituals, including Suna Besha and Niladri Bije.

Expressing grief over the death of two devotees due to health-related issues during the Rath Yatra, the Chief Minister conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families. He announced an ex gratia of ₹10 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the next of kin of the deceased.

Shree Jagannath Temple Chief Administrator Aravind Padhee briefed the meeting on festival management, while DGP Y. B. Khurania and Fire Services DG Sudhanshu Sarangi outlined security and emergency preparedness measures.

Among others present were Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner D. K. Singh, and senior officials, who shared inputs on ensuring smooth management of Bahuda Yatra and Suna Besha.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda