Puri:  To facilitate devotees visiting Puri for the world famous Ratha Jatra beginning July 4, the Odisha Government has decided to run additional 200 special buses to the pilgrim town.

A decision to this effect was taken at a high-level meeting held here under the chairmanship of Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC), Central Range Anil Samal yesterday.

The meeting had discussion on several issues, including higher bus fares during Ratha Jatra. It was decided that strict action will be taken against private buses if they charge passengers higher than the actual fare, said the RDC.

The meeting also stressed on coordination between all private buses during the nine-day festival. The buses will operate round-the clock during Ratha Jatra, Bahuda Jatra and Suna Besa.

Besides, facilities like first-aid and drinking water will be provided at every bus stoppage. This apart, e-rickshaws will be made available at Talabania here for Divyang passengers.

The meeting was attended by Puri SP Uma Shankar Dash and owners of private buses plying in the Twin City of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.