Puri, June 9: In view of the sweltering summer heat and the anticipated large turnout of devotees during the upcoming Rath Yatra, the Odisha government has announced comprehensive measures to prevent heat stroke and ensure public safety. The decisions were finalized during the second Rath Yatra coordination committee meeting chaired by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.
To tackle heat-related illnesses, all Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Primary Health Centers (PHCs) in and around Puri have been equipped with fans and air conditioners. In areas where air conditioners are not available, coolers have been installed. In addition, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) corners have been established at all key locations to help pilgrims stay hydrated.
Several temporary medical facilities have also been set up:
- Six beds at the Puri District Headquarters Hospital
- Six beds at Utkal Hindi Vidyapeetha
- Ten beds at Jagannath Ballav parking area
- Six beds at the Police Holiday Home
- Twenty-five beds at the North Gate arranged by Hi-Tech Hospital
Provisions have also been made at Brahmagiri and Rebaṇa Nuagaon to accommodate pilgrims who do not have overnight lodging.
Ahead of Snana Purnima—the ceremonial bathing ritual of Lord Jagannath—heat stroke relief arrangements have been made at locations such as Kakudi Khai and Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate). ORS corners have been set up along the route from Market Square to Singhadwara.
The iconic Ghosa Yatra is scheduled to take place on June 27, followed by Snana Purnima. With an unprecedented number of devotees expected this year, the coordination committee is focusing on crowd management, safety, public amenities, and the smooth execution of rituals, including the orderly movement of the deities—referred to as Nitikanti.
Officials from various departments presented updates on their responsibilities during the meeting, emphasizing a collaborative and well-coordinated effort to ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling Rath Yatra for all devotees.
