Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi chaired a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan to evaluate preparations for the upcoming Bahuda Jatra of Lord Jagannath scheduled for July 24.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister instructed officials to prioritize efficient crowd management and seamless information flow. He also appealed to devotees to adhere strictly to the guidelines issued by the administration and police.
Law and Works Minister Shri Prithviraj Harichandan, Chief Minister’s Advisor Shri Prakash Mishra, Chief Secretary Anu Garg, and Development Commissioner Shri D.K. Singh, ACS Home Shri Hemant Sharma ACS to CM Shri Saswat Mishra were also present and shared their inputs regarding smooth operations for Bahuda Yatra and Suna Besha.
Shree Jagannath Temple Administration Chief Administrator Dr. Arabinda Padhee presented a detailed report on festival management. Key officials including Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania, Fire Services Director General Dr. Sudhanshu Sarangi, and Additional Director General of Police Modernisation Shri Saumendra Priyadarshi outlined security measures.
The review highlighted that all rituals from Rath Yatra up to the present have been conducted smoothly. Despite heavy rainfall, adverse weather, and high humidity, the dedication of officials, staff, and devotees remained unwavering. Chief Minister Majhi expressed his deep appreciation and gratitude to the servitors for their sincerity and commended the administrative team for working with commendable team spirit.
The Puri district and police administration remain on high alert, regularly monitoring all arrangements. Senior officials are physically present to oversee key events including Pahandi, chariot pulling, Dakhini Moda, and Adapa Mandap darshan.
To enhance crowd control, the Chief Minister emphasized using scientific methods to monitor crowd density. He suggested integrating CCTV feeds with the Integrated Command and Control System to deliver real-time information to problem areas, allowing for swift resolution. He urged officials to maintain heightened vigilance for the upcoming Bahuda Yatra, Suna Besha, and Niladri Bije to ensure all rituals proceed without interruption.
Expressing deep grief over the tragic loss of two devotees due to health complications during the festival, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund has been announced for the families of the deceased.