Puri prepares for annual Rath Yatra with crucial coordination meeting, key ministers & officials discuss arrangements

A pivotal coordination meeting for the upcoming world-famous Rath Yatra in Puri took place at the Poura Sadan on Monday.

The second coordination meeting was chaired by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan with prominent attendance from Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.

Senior governmental and local representatives, including the Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, district administrative officials, Puri Member of Parliament, and district legislator,s also participated in the all-important meeting to discuss the preparations for the world-famous festival to be held on June 27.

Focus on infrastructure & security enhancements

As per reports, the discussions encompassed an array of logistical preparations crucial for the smooth execution of the grand festival. These included roads, sanitation, health provisions, security measures, transport, and railway services.

Attention was also equally given to ensuring the construction of the chariots progresses on schedule, managing the structured flow of the festival in a disciplined manner, establishing effective viewing arrangements for the devotees, and maintaining law and order throughout the event.

Precautionary measures for Covid-19

"The second coordination meeting for the upcoming Rath Yatra in Puri was held today. Around 80 per cent of the work for the festival has been completed so far. There is plenty of time left for the remaining work to be completed. We are confident that these works will be fully completed before the Rath Yatra. I strongly believe that Lord Jagannath executes His Rath Yatra Himself, and we all only try to cooperate. With the Lord's blessings, this year's Rath Yatra will be completed smoothly. The Ministers will review various works of Rath Yatra," said Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.

Must Read: Timber shortage hits chariot construction work ahead of Puri Rath Yatra

"We had an elaborate discussion about COVID-19. Neither the Centre nor the State Health Department has any particular advice about it. However, we will take all the precautionary measures as per the advice of the State Health Department. We will regularly make people aware to take necessary precautionary measures," he added.

Health facilities

"Elaborate arrangements have been made for this year's Rath Yatra. As many as 300 doctors will be deployed during the festival. Temporary burn units and ICUs will be set up. As many as 15 permanent ICU beds will be set up in the hospitals before the Rath Yatra," said Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling.

Cultural significance 

The Rath Yatra, a revered festival in Odisha, draws a large crowd from across India and the world. This coordination meeting underscores its importance, ensuring that every detail aligns with the cultural and spiritual significance of the event.