Bhubaneswar: Odisha is witnessing a concerning uptick in COVID-19 cases, prompting health authorities to reiterate caution and preparedness, especially with the upcoming Puri Ratha Jatra. As of Friday, June 6, 2025, the state reported seven new positive cases, bringing the total active infections to 30.
The highest number of active cases is currently concentrated in Khurda district with 16, followed by Cuttack with nine. Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendujhar, Sundargarh, and Balasore districts have also reported one case each.
While the state’s Public Health Director, Nilakantha Mishra, has assured the public that the situation is under control and the detected cases are of mild Omicron sub-variants, the Health Department is not taking any chances.
In light of the approaching annual Puri Ratha Jatra, a major religious congregation, the state government is preparing to issue a special advisory for devotees. Health officials have strongly advised individuals with COVID-like symptoms, the elderly, and those with comorbidities to refrain from attending the festival. Strict adherence to facemasks and hand sanitization during the Ratha Jatra will be emphasized.
Furthermore, the Health Department is taking proactive steps to re-operationalize ICUs previously set up during the pandemic at Puri ahead of the Car Festival. Additional beds and medical staff are being arranged at the Puri District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) to handle any potential surge.
Officials urge citizens to remain vigilant and continue practicing basic health protocols such as maintaining social distancing, avoiding crowded places, and ensuring proper hand hygiene. While there is no immediate cause for panic, the slight rise in cases serves as a reminder of the need for continued public cooperation to curb the spread of the virus.