CM Reviews Ratha Jatra Preparations, Stresses Safety and Vigilance

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday reviewed the ongoing preparations for the annual Ratha Jatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, emphasizing the need for a smooth, safe, and well-managed celebration of the world-famous festival scheduled for June 27.

The high-level review meeting was held at the Town Hall in Puri, where the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure incident-free conduct of the Car Festival. He stressed on proper crowd management, especially considering the massive turnout of devotees from across the country and abroad.

Highlighting the importance of public health, the Chief Minister asked the Health Department to remain on high alert during the festival in view of the recent diarrhoea outbreak in some districts. He instructed officials to monitor hygiene standards strictly and take steps to prevent the sale of contaminated food and water in Puri during the event.

The CM also urged the servitors of the Jagannath Temple to extend full cooperation to ensure timely performance of rituals throughout the festival.

“Ratha Jatra is not just an official event, it is a matter of pride and spiritual identity for Odisha. The emotions of crores of devotees are attached to this sacred festival. Its successful organisation is our collective responsibility and sacred duty,” said Majhi during the meeting.

Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan briefed the gathering on the administrative steps taken for the festival, while Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling outlined healthcare arrangements for pilgrims. DGP YB Khurania detailed the security and law-and-order measures in place for the event.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chief Ministers KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Puri MP Sambit Patra, and Rajya Sabha MP Subhashis Khuntia, among other senior officials and dignitaries.