Thousands work tirelessly keeping Puri clean during Rath Yatra.

Puri Municipal Corporation has activated its most extensive civic operation to keep the holy city spotless for the 2026 Rath Yatra. Working tirelessly day and night, 1,451 sanitation personnel brave heavy monsoon rains to guarantee hygiene across Bada Danda and the Gundicha Temple premises. For centuries, managing the huge influx of pilgrims on this sacred grand road has challenged regional administrators, making today's modern, technology-driven sanitation efforts absolutely vital for sustaining public health.

Sanitation workers stand firmly on the front lines of this relentless civic effort. Supported by 570 waste collection vehicles, cesspool machines, and mechanical road sweepers, these teams clear garbage instantly to prevent littering. Busy food distribution spots, inner chariot cordons, temple precincts, and the populated Beach Road receive continuous overnight cleaning to maintain a pristine environment.

Battling Heavy Monsoon Showers

Sudden downpours pose a constant challenge during the coastal monsoon season. Officials activated 38 dewatering pumps alongside 50 emergency fire service units to drain vulnerable low-lying locations rapidly. High-capacity machines pump out nearly 3,000 liters of water per minute to prevent waterlogging and keep crowds moving safely. Civic authorities proactively covered open drains with concrete slabs, desilted major channels, and repaired road surfaces well before the festival commenced.

Visiting devotees have access to 1,600 temporary toilets, including mobile units and customized facilities for differently-abled individuals. Geo-tagging technology helps officials track these clusters continuously to maintain strict hygiene and accountability. Additionally, nearly 3,000 temporary streetlights illuminate strategic pathways, ensuring pedestrian safety during night hours while technical repair teams remain on standby.

Leadership Appreciates Civic Dedication

Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra praised the seamless coordination between various government departments. He stated that delivering excellent public facilities for Lord Jagannath’s devotees remains a top priority. Furthermore, Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee highlighted this highly systematic, technology-focused administrative approach. She observed that deploying field staff around the clock has established exceptional cleanliness standards. Continuous anti-encroachment patrols keep city streets clear for pedestrians and vehicles. Diligent planning and rapid response actions by frontline workers guarantee a safe, hygienic, and spiritually fulfilling environment for everyone attending the chariot festival.