Puri, June 26: The Odisha government’s Health and Family Welfare Department has undertaken extensive preparations to ensure round-the-clock healthcare services for the millions of devotees and pilgrims expected to gather in Puri for the upcoming Rath Yatra 2025.
In a proactive move, a high-level team led by Additional Chief Secretary of Health visited Puri on Tuesday to review and supervise the healthcare arrangements. This year, the department has significantly scaled up its medical infrastructure and staffing to meet the anticipated surge in demand.
Compared to 140 additional beds last year, 265 extra beds have been arranged this year. Moreover, 378 specialised healthcare personnel have been mobilised from various districts to bolster medical services in the city. The district headquarters hospital has also stocked 200 units of blood across different banks to ensure availability during emergencies.
For the first time, a special medical team from AIIMS Bhubaneswar will be stationed at the Rath Yatra treatment centre to provide advanced medical support.
As part of the elaborate plan, a network of 29 primary healthcare centres will be operational. Additionally, 32 government-run centres will function between 27 June and 8 July, along with 37 centres supported by volunteer organisations. These centres will offer 24-hour services on the days of Rath Yatra, Bahuda Yatra, and Sunabesha, with teams comprising MBBS or Ayush doctors, pharmacists, and support staff.
The health centres will be strategically located for maximum coverage:
9 centres on Bada Danda (near Singhadwara, Gundicha Temple, Jagannath Ballav)
8 centres along the Puri–Bhubaneswar Road
5 centres at Swargadwar and Lighthouse Beach
4 centres on Puri–Konark Road
2 centres within Puri city, particularly near the railway stations.
To address heat-related ailments, a special 10-bedded air-conditioned Heat Stroke Centre has been established at Talabania.
A strong ambulance network is also in place, comprising 74 ambulances—31 government-operated and 43 supported by volunteers. These vehicles will be deployed across designated corridors to ensure swift emergency response.
In parallel, a public health IEC (Information, Education and Communication) campaign is being run to raise awareness on vital issues such as food safety, safe drinking water, hand hygiene, sanitation, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) usage, health schemes like Ayushman Bharat, and COVID-19 precautions.
A 24/7 Rath Yatra Health Control Room has been set up to manage health emergencies and coordinate services. Citizens can reach out for assistance at mobile number +91 6370560247 or landline 06752-222175.
To strengthen field coordination, a special camp office of the Health and Family Welfare Department will begin functioning in Puri starting tomorrow. Senior officials will remain stationed in the city throughout the Rath Yatra period to ensure the smooth execution of all health-related services.
