Puri: The spiritual capital of Odisha is bracing for an unprecedented spiritual gathering as the Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration (SJTA) and the Puri District Administration finalize a multi-layered security and facilitation blueprint for the transition into 2026.
SJTA Chief Administrator Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, alongside District Magistrate Shri Dibya Jyoti Parida and SP Shri Prateek Singh, conducted a comprehensive review of the holy city’s preparedness to host an estimated 2 lakh devotees on Zero Night and New Year’s Day.
At the heart of the administrative strategy is the sanctity of the darshan experience. To manage the massive influx of pilgrims seeking the blessings of the Holy Trinity, the administration has implemented a systemic barricading plan extending along the Grand Road.
Dr. Padhee emphasized that the priority is to ensure a disciplined flow of devotees from the Lion’s Gate into the temple, with specific provisions for senior citizens and differently-abled individuals to navigate the crowd with dignity and ease.
In a spirit of deep humility and surrender to the divine will, Dr. Padhee, the Chief Administrator, SJTA has extended a heartfelt appeal to the Lord of the Universe and His millions of children journeying toward the Holy City.
Recognizing that no administrative effort can succeed without the divine grace of Mahaprabhu, Dr. Padhee offered prayers at the feet of the Lord of the Universe, seeking His supreme guidance and protection for the millions of souls expected to gather at the 22 stairs of the Shrimandira.
From a security perspective, SP Shri Prateek Singh has overseen the deployment of 60 platoons of police personnel across the city. This massive force is supported by a hierarchy of 10 Additional SPs, 33 DSPs, 62 Inspectors, and 245 Sub-Inspectors. Surveillance has been heightened through a 24-hour centralized control room that monitors a vast network of CCTV cameras installed at key intersections, the temple periphery, and the shoreline. Specialized units, including the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and the Special Task Force (STF), are stationed at strategic points to mitigate any emergency risks.
The District Administration has also prioritized pilgrim welfare in the face of the winter sun and dense crowds. DM Dibya Jyoti Parida confirmed that extensive arrangements for shade, drinking water points, and mobile health units have been established along the Grand Road. To facilitate a hassle-free visit, additional shoe stands and information centers have been made operational.
Traffic management remains a critical pillar of the New Year plan. A dedicated parking and traffic routing system is in effect to prevent congestion in the narrow lanes leading to the shrine. Strict enforcement of law and order is also being maintained, with the police conducting thorough checks at local hotels and lodges to ensure the safety of all visitors.
As the city prepares for the divine transition, the administration has appealed to the public to cooperate with the protocols and maintain the spiritual decorum of the Nilachal Dham. The combination of religious fervor and administrative precision aims to make the New Year celebrations in Puri a safe and soul-stirring experience for every devotee.