TV
In a proactive move to ensure the safety of devotees and the smooth conduct of the upcoming Rath Yatra, Odisha's Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania on Monday visited the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri.
The DGP’s visit assumes significance in view of the recent tensions that were between India and Pakistan post Pahalgam terrorist attack and the subsequently couter-attack launched by India, which was code-named ‘Operation Sindoor’.
With weeks to go before the grand annual festival Rath Yatra, the DGP personally inspected the preparedness of the police and other security forces deployed at the temple.
Security Tightened
During his visit, the DGP interacted with senior police officials and reviewed the deployment of modern security infrastructure. Notably, armoured vehicle ‘Vajra’ was seen patrolling near the temple entrance as part of the enhanced security protocol.
Armed commandos armed with latest weapons have also been deployed. This move is seen as a preventive step to counter any untoward incident and reassure pilgrims of their safety.
The security review also included a detailed analysis of crowd management strategies, CCTV surveillance coverage, quick response teams, and coordination with local administration. Officials stressed that with lakhs of devotees expected to gather during Rath Yatra, security remains the top priority.
As per reports, security forces are on high alert and final rehearsals for emergency protocols are underway. More updates are expected in the coming days as authorities continue to fine-tune the arrangements.
It is pertinent to mention here that recently, a team of National Security Guard (NSG) had also conducted a security check at Puri Jagannath temple. The NSG officials had held discussions with several senior police officials and Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
