Odisha Mandates Queue Darshan After Kolkata Stampede

Following the Kolkata Durga Puja stampede that claimed 19 lives and injured several people, Odisha Police on Sunday directed puja committees to enforce queue-based darshan and prevent overcrowding.

DGP-in-charge Vinaytosh Mishra instructed organisers to regulate entry and exit, deploy sufficient volunteers and maintain smooth visitor movement. Police personnel, mobile units, static guards and striking forces have been deployed across the state, while ambulance and fire service access must remain clear.

Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissioner S. Dev Datta Singh said committees must follow safety guidelines and install CCTV cameras, warning of strict action against violations. Odisha Fire and Emergency Services has deployed eight specialised rescue teams in Bhubaneswar, trained in crowd rescue, first aid, CPR and emergency medical support.

Rasulgarh Durga Puja Committee president Prakash Routray said 60 volunteers had been assigned to manage visitors and ensure orderly darshan.

Bhubaneswar has around 193 Durga Puja medhas this year, alongside 24 Chandi medhas and seven Meena bazaars. Central Range IG Satyajit Naik has also directed police superintendents in seven districts to prevent overcrowding and regulate movement near pandals, particularly during rainfall.