Khandagiri Jatra restricted to 1,800 Seats; organisers stare at loss

The Commissionerate Police have imposed a cap on seating capacity at Khandagiri Jatra pandals, restricting the number of spectators to 1,800 per show as part of enhanced safety measures for this year’s festival.

The decision was communicated by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), who issued detailed guidelines to ensure crowd safety and emergency preparedness. As per the directive, a minimum three-foot gap between seating rows is mandatory, along with wider internal pathways inside the pandals to allow smooth movement of spectators and quick access for emergency services.

Strict compliance with the norms has been instructed for all Jatra organising committees.

Organisers Express Concern Over Reduced Capacity

While the Jatra committees have agreed to adhere to the police order, they have expressed concern over the financial impact of the reduced seating capacity. A meeting was held on Tuesday at Khandagiri Police Station, attended by police officials and representatives of six Jatra organising committees, to discuss the issue.

Following the meeting, the organisers agreed to limit ticket sales to 1,800 seats per show, citing respect for the police and local administration.

Ticket Prices Unchanged Despite Losses

Organisers confirmed that ticket prices will remain unchanged at Rs 300 and Rs 250, and assured that there would be no increase in rates despite the restrictions. However, they claim the seating cap will result in a loss of nearly Rs 2 lakh per night.

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Raghunath Mohanty, President of the Indira Cultural Youth Council, said the organisers would comply with the directive.
“We are facing a loss of around Rs 2 lakh as only 1,800 seats have been permitted. We will not increase the seating capacity. As decided in the meeting, the Jatra will be conducted peacefully and strictly in accordance with the administration’s order,” he said.

Police officials reiterated that the measures were taken in the interest of public safety and the smooth conduct of the festival.