As the Badadanda (Grand Road) in Puri witnessed a sea of devotees on Rath Yatra on Friday, a green corridor was created to facilitate ambulance movement in emergencies.
As per reports, the corridor was created with the help of fire fighters, special forces and several other social organisations.
Ahead of the festival, the traffic police and Red Cross conducted a green corridor mock drill on the Grand Road in Puri on Tuesday. The Red Cross and traffic police officials conducted the mock drill by forming a human chain and clearing way for movement of ambulance during emergency.
An ecstatic devotee who has been battling since morning to get a chance to touch the holy rope of Nandighosha said, “I have been standing on the Bada Danda since morning. Though tiring, the experience of watching the Lord through my eyes is surreal.”
Pertinent to mention here that the Odisha Fire Service has mobilized one hydraulic platform, eight motor fire engines, eight water tanker, 15 quick response units, one rescue tender, one crane, three ambulances, 10 pumps for discharging water, five power boats, five underwater diving suits for effective fire protection and rescue duty during Srigundicha and Bahuda Yatra.
90 life guards and 300 local lifeguards have been deployed for the smooth conduction of the annual extravaganza. Also, 15 quick response teams and six water tanks will be in place to deal with sunstroke related cases.