Odisha officials asked to speed up preparations for Puri Ratha Jatra

Puri: While cyclone FANI ravaged the pilgrim town of Puri, which is yet to regain its glory, officials of all departments concerned have been asked to expedite preparations for the world famous Ratha Jatra beginning on July 4.

Today, the third meeting of the Rath Yatra Coordination Committee was held here under the chairmanship of Revenue Divisional Commissioner (Central) Anil Samal to ensure smooth conduct of the annual extravaganza.

The meeting had discussion on various issues, including security arrangements, power supply, healthcare, drinking water and sanitation. Inspector General of Police (Central Range) Soumendra Priyadarshi informed that around 155 platoons of police forces will be deployed in and around the pilgrim town during the nine-day festival.

Law Minister Pratap Jena said 192 special trains will ply to Puri during the festival and ticket booking counters will be opened at 62 places, including Puri.

Besides, officials of Public Works Department (PWD) and Puri Municipality have been asked to complete cleaning of all drains in the town by June 25. Besides, the electricity officials have been directed to ensure complete restoration of power in the entire district by June 30.

Besides, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has been asked to keep five ambulances ready on Puri-Bhubaneswar NH.

The meeting also focused on improvement of deteriorating healthcare services in the district. A team of the Health Department will be formed to take stock of the situation in the district and action will be taken accordingly, said an official.

Among others, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Pradipta Mohapatra and district SP Uma Shankar Dash were present at the meeting.