Ratha Jatra 2022: 180 platoons of police force, over 1,000 officers to be deployed

Puri: Keeping in view possible congregation of lakhs of devotees during the Ratha Jatra here on July 1 this year, the Odisha Police has chalked out plans for elaborate security arrangements.

Following a preparatory meeting for the Ratha Jatra, DGP Sunil Kumar Bansal informed a five-tier security will be provided around the three chariots. The pilgrim city will be divided into 10 zones and 29 sectors. A three-tier security will be in place around the Puri city.

The Odisha Police will deploy 180 platoons of police personnel. Over 1,000 competent officers will be stationed as well, Bansal added.

He further stated the security arrangements for the Ratha Jatra have been made keeping in mind terrorist threats as well. This apart, tactical unit, bomb disposal squad and Coast Guard will be stationed to ensure the full-proof security.

The traffic regulation in the pilgrim city will be in three phases. A digital route plan has been also prepared.

During Naba Jaubana Darshan, Ubha Jatra and Ratha Jatra one phase of traffic regulation will be enforced. For Bahuda Jatra and darshan at evening hours the police will make traffic regulations in the second phase. There will be another phase of traffic regulation during Suna Besa and Niladri Bije.

Eight parking places have been designated for devotees who will arrive at the pilgrim city during the chariot festival.

Those who will be reaching Puri city from Bhubaneswar and Konark will park their vehicles at Malatipatpur and Talabania respectively.

People arriving at the pilgrim city from Brahmagiri side will park their vehicles at Jagannatha Ballav, Blue Flag and Nilachal Ashoka.