Puri, Jul 14: Ahead of the world-famous Rath Yatra, the Odisha Police has released a comprehensive traffic advisory and route map to ensure smooth movement of lakhs of devotees expected to visit Puri for the grand festival.

Addressing a press conference, ADG (Traffic) Soumendra Priyadarshi urged pilgrims to carefully study the traffic guidelines before starting their journey to Puri. He advised devotees, especially those travelling from Bhubaneswar, to familiarise themselves with the designated routes, diversions and parking arrangements in advance to avoid congestion and delays.

To streamline vehicular movement during the festival, authorities have created 30 designated parking locations across the city.

· 22 parking zones have been earmarked exclusively for four-wheelers.

· 4 parking areas have been reserved for two-wheelers.

· 4 dedicated parking locations have been arranged for buses.

To help visitors navigate the city, traffic advisories, diversion updates and route information will be displayed through LED screens at 65 locations across Puri from Tuesday evening onwards. The traffic management system will also be supported by an extensive CCTV surveillance network to monitor vehicle movement and regulate congestion in real time.

With lakhs of devotees expected to participate in the annual chariot festival, the Odisha Police and district administration have put in place elaborate traffic management measures to ensure a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage.

ADG Soumendra Priyadarshi appealed to all visitors to strictly follow the traffic regulations, cooperate with police personnel on duty, and use only the designated routes and parking facilities for a smooth and secure Rath Yatra experience.