Bhubaneswar, July 11: Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened for the upcoming Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Odisha's Puri, with 15 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and elite National Security Guard (NSG) Black Cat Commandos set to be deployed during the annual festival.

The deployment plan was finalised during a high-level security review meeting chaired by Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania.

According to officials, around 13,000 security personnel, including CAPF units, will be stationed across Puri to maintain law and order during the grand event.

The administration will also establish 70 police aid posts at key locations in and around the city to assist devotees and ensure smooth coordination.

The DGP said the police administration is fully prepared to conduct the Rath Yatra in a disciplined and well-organised manner.

With lakhs of devotees expected to visit the Holy City, he stressed that ensuring the safety, security and convenience of pilgrims would remain the top priority. He also instructed police personnel to maintain a patient, courteous and service-oriented approach while dealing with devotees.

To streamline traffic movement, Puri has been divided into four traffic zones. A total of 45 police sections will be assigned to traffic management, while two dedicated traffic control rooms will operate from Kumbharpara and Malatipatpur.

The Odisha Police said drones will be used to monitor traffic flow and crowd movement throughout the festival. In addition, over 400 CCTV cameras have been installed along the Grand Road and other strategic locations to strengthen surveillance.

Authorities have planned a five-tier security cover around the 12th-century Jagannath Temple and the three ceremonial chariots to ensure an incident-free Rath Yatra. Quick Response Teams (QRTs) will remain deployed along the Grand Road to respond swiftly to any emergency.

To accommodate the large influx of vehicles, authorities have identified 30 parking lots, including eight newly developed parking facilities, to accommodate the large influx of vehicles expected during the festival.

Devotees will also receive real-time updates on traffic conditions, temple rituals, and safety advisories through a dedicated chatbot service during the festival.

The DGP said experienced police officers have been assigned to Rath Yatra duty, with special emphasis on ensuring the safe pulling of the chariots, effective crowd management and the overall smooth conduct of the festival.

Director of Intelligence R.P. Koche emphasised efficient traffic regulation, crowd control, VIP movement and cordon arrangements. He also instructed all officers to maintain constant coordination and communication to further strengthen the security framework.

Additional Director General of Police (Modernisation) Soumendra Priyadarshi directed personnel to perform their duties with dedication, professionalism and a spirit of public service. He asked officers to remain polite and respectful towards devotees, avoid leaving their assigned duty posts under any circumstances, and stay committed to their responsibilities even in adverse weather conditions.

He also stressed the importance of effective crowd management during the chariot-pulling ceremony so that every devotee can return with a safe and positive experience from the Rath Yatra.