February 26th 2025.
On Tuesday, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja of Odisha directed the state police department and Puri district collector to create Standard Operating Procedures for the highly anticipated Ratha Yatra in Puri, scheduled for 2025. Ahuja, who chaired a preliminary preparation meeting for the event, emphasized the need for proper planning and management.
According to a statement released by the state government, the discussions mainly focused on crowd control and security measures to ensure a smooth and successful Ratha Yatra. One of the proposed measures included the installation of 343 CCTV cameras at strategic locations, with the aim of enhancing surveillance and real-time monitoring during the festival.
The state police administration suggested installing these cameras at key points such as roads leading to Puri, Grand Road, Puri Beach, and the Gundicha Temple. This would not only aid in managing traffic and controlling crowds, but also help in preventing criminal activities and maintaining law and order. Similar cameras would also be placed at other important areas like bus stands, railway stations, parking lots, and inner lanes of Puri city.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary stressed the need for the CCTV surveillance system to meet national standards and instructed officials to take necessary steps for its effective implementation. It was also decided that an Integrated Command and Control Center would be set up at Puri during the festival, with officers from different departments stationed there to carry out their respective tasks.
The Command and Control Center will play a crucial role in real-time monitoring, preventing crime, managing crowds, responding to emergencies, and handling any potential disasters. The meeting also discussed the infrastructure and technical requirements for the Ratha Yatra and the need to incorporate technology into the preparations.
In addition, special attention was given to the public announcement systems to ensure smooth communication during the grand event. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Satyabrata Sahu, Director General of Police YB Khurania, Puri Collector, Superintendent of Police, and other senior officials. The Chief Secretary has emphasized the importance of taking necessary steps to prepare for the Ratha Yatra and ensuring that the CCTV system meets national standards.
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