Cuttack Bali Yatra to be held on both upper and lower ground, Orissa HC nod awaited

The Cuttack district administration, on Monday, announced that the historic Bali Yatra festival will be held on both the upper and lower grounds this year, a departure from earlier plans that restricted activities to the lower ground near Gadagadia Ghat.

The updated proposal, aimed at improving crowd management and public safety, will be submitted to the Orissa High Court ahead of the next hearing scheduled for October 9, informed Cuttack District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde.

Upper Ground To Host Bali Yatra

Shinde confirmed that a meeting with all relevant stakeholders was conducted to finalise arrangements for holding the fair on the upper ground. The administration plans to present a detailed layout and safety measures before the Orissa High Court for approval.

“The Orissa HC wants the Cuttack administration to ensure public safety and ease traffic congestion. We will present our updated proposal and layout for the Upper Ground to the Court, and subject to its approval, the fair will be held,” he said.

He added that the next hearing is scheduled for October 9 and that the administration is preparing a blueprint to ensure public safety and prevent any stampede-like situations in densely crowded zones like the area in front of the boat gate.

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Festival Dates And Expanded Layout

The Bali Yatra festival is scheduled to start from November 5 to November 12, 2025, along the banks of the Mahanadi River.

Unlike previous editions, which were confined to 34 acres on the lower ground, this year the festival area will expand to 60 acres. As per the earlier plans, the lower ground was to continue hosting commercial stalls, while the upper ground will accommodate cultural activities and public spaces to ease congestion.

Public Convenience Measures

The Collector also stated that proper crowd control and traffic management measures are being implemented in this edition of the historic fair. More than 50 buses will be deployed for visitor convenience, and two stages will be set up for cultural performances.

The festival is also expected to extend its closing time to 11 pm, compared to 10 pm in earlier years, to allow for a smooth flow of events and visitor movement.