Kataka, July 13: About 18 platoons of police force will be deployed in Kataka city for the smooth conduct of Rath Yatra on July 16.

Kataka DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo chaired a meeting to review the police arrangements for Rath Yatra and Suna Besha and directed officials to focus on safety of devotees, crowd control, and traffic regulation.

The Commissionerate Police has made elaborate arrangements to maintain law and order situation and smooth traffic movement during the annual festival of Rath Yatra festival. Chariot pulling will be observed in several places, including Ranihat, Dolamundai, Chandinichowk, CDA, Badambadi, Jobra and Choudwar, Kataka Sadar and Jagatpur areas. This apart, Rath Yatra will be celebrated in 10 places on the city outskirts.

Police said Rath Yatra is observed in a grand manner at five locations in the city, including Ranihat, Dolamundai and, Chandinichowk.

CCTV cameras will be installed inside and around the temple and the Ratha Khala to strengthen surveillance. Police personnel in civil clothes will be deployed to curb pickpocketing and chain-snatching during the grand event.

Senior officers have been assigned to coordinate closely with other departments of the district administration to ensure successful conduct of the sacred festival.