NSG snipers, choppers to keep eagle eye on Puri Rath Yatra
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Bhubaneswar: State govt plans to deploy NSG snipers and aerial surveillance by the
Indian Air Force
for the security of Puri Rath Yatra on June 27, said chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday after chairing a final preparatory meeting for the annual festival.
In light of national security concerns post-Operation Sindoor, the state govt has prioritised ensuring an "incident-free" Rath Yatra. Official sources said a five-tier security system, comprising over 10,000 police personnel, central forces, more than 200 platoons of state forces and an anti-terrorist squad, has been put in place for peaceful conduct of the festival.
"Govt is taking measures to prevent terror activities in the wake of Operation Sindoor.
Rooftop deployment of NSG snipers on Grand Road and aerial patrol through helicopters to prevent potential airborne threats are under active consideration of the state govt. Our prime objective is to ensure an incident-free festival," Majhi said.
The CM said the govt plans to implement its security strategy through extensive police deployment, supported by AI-powered surveillance systems. "AI-enabled cameras and drones will be used for security, crowd control and traffic management.
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Police have been instructed to take adequate steps to prevent stampede-like situations and rumour-mongering," the CM said.
Police were instructed to identify potential stampede-prone areas and implement stringent preventive measures. The fire service directorate received strict instructions to maintain vigilance, while a ban was placed on diya sales and outdoor cooking in crowded areas.
The CM emphasised that Rath Yatra symbolises Odisha's cultural heritage, connecting millions emotionally.
"Managing the festival should be viewed not merely as an administrative duty, but as a sacred obligation and responsibility," Majhi said.
Considering recent outbreaks of cholera and diarrhoea in certain districts, the health department and associated authorities were directed to maintain heightened alert throughout the festival period.
Saying that Puri Rath Yatra will be watched by devotees from across the globe, Majhi urged officials across departments to collaborate effectively, ensuring smooth conduct of the festival. The CM stressed the importance of timely and disciplined ritual performance, requesting complete cooperation from the sevayat (servitors) community.
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