Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and MP Sambit Patra Review Rath Yatra Security Systems

MP Sambit Patra’s Call for Volunteer Mobilization

Dr. Sambit Patra, who has been personally involved in several Rath Yatra planning meetings this year, emphasized the importance of community involvement and volunteer engagement.

“Security is not just the job of police; it is everyone’s responsibility. We must encourage citizens, youth groups, and temple volunteers to cooperate and support the administration,” Patra said.

He also commended the Odisha Police, NDRF, and other central agencies for their seamless integration and clear chain of command for emergencies.

Crowd Management and Medical Preparedness

As part of the inspection, the Union leaders were also briefed on evacuation protocols, emergency medical tents, and green corridors established for swift access to hospitals in case of any mishap.

A separate command room for medical response, operated by a joint task force of doctors, paramedics, and ambulances, was also shown to the leaders.

“We are not just planning for crowd movement but also ensuring health and emergency response is equally prioritized,” noted a senior district health official during the visit.

Appreciating the Silent Workforce

Both Dharmendra Pradhan and Sambit Patra interacted with the ground teams, thanking the technical staff, police officers, sanitation workers, and electricians who are working round-the-clock to make the Rath Yatra 2025 a smooth and safe experience.

Special appreciation was given to IT professionals managing the surveillance architecture and data systems powering the real-time decision-making framework.

Inter-Agency Coordination at Peak Efficiency

The Rath Yatra Security Inspection also served as a final litmus test for inter-agency coordination, involving:

• Odisha Police

• Central Armed Forces

• Temple Administration

• District Collectorate

• Disaster Management Teams

• Health Department

The Union Minister was briefed on the coordination drills already completed, including mock stampede simulations, VIP security route clearance, and terror threat mitigation strategies.

Pilgrim Communication and Signage Systems

Clear signage in multiple languages, LED scrolling announcements, drone-loudspeakers for lost persons, and live helpline numbers were also highlighted. Pilgrims can also access a dedicated mobile app for Rath Yatra guidance, emergency calls, and real-time crowd maps.

Conclusion: Faith, Technology, and Planning in Harmony

The Rath Yatra Security Inspection by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and MP Sambit Patra offered a reassuring glimpse into the dedication and innovation being deployed behind the scenes.

Their visit and endorsement send a strong message of accountability and administrative readiness, building public confidence in the ability of the government to conduct this sacred event with devotion, discipline, and digital strength.

As the chariots prepare to roll and the chants of “Jai Jagannath” rise, Puri stands ready—with faith in its heart and technology at its fingertips—to host one of the largest religious gatherings on Earth, safely and successfully.