Police Finalise Elaborate Security Arrangements for New Year 2026 in Puri

Puri: In view of the New Year 2026 celebrations, the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Central Range (DIG, CR), held a review meeting with senior police officers of Puri district to assess and strengthen security arrangements for the safe and orderly observance of festivities.

The meeting focused on comprehensive security, traffic regulation, crowd management, and emergency preparedness for December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026, with special emphasis on Puri town, the Shree Jagannath Temple, and the sea beach areas.

With an estimated 3.5 to 4 lakh devotees expected to visit the Shree Jagannath Temple during the period, police authorities have put in place extensive arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of celebrations.

As part of the security plan, 60 platoons of police personnel have been deployed, along with 10 additional Superintendents of Police, 33 DSPs, 62 inspectors, and 245 sub-inspectors for effective crowd control. Specialized units including lifeguards, ODRAF, and STF teams will also be stationed at strategic locations.

To enhance monitoring, CCTV surveillance systems and control rooms will remain operational from December 29, 2025, to January 1, 2026. Detailed traffic and parking plans, multiple designated parking zones, and contingency measures have been prepared to manage the anticipated rush.

Barricades and public address systems have been installed to facilitate organized temple entry and regulate crowd movement. Preventive measures are also being enforced, including action under the National Security Act (NSA) against anti-social elements and strict checks to prevent the entry of contraband.

Meanwhile, Odisha Police has appealed to devotees, tourists, and local residents to cooperate with authorities, follow advisories, and celebrate the New Year responsibly, reiterating that public safety and security remain the top priority.