Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has decided to enhance security measures for the upcoming Rath Yatra in the pilgrim town of Puri as part of efforts to ensure the safety of the deities and the chariots.
Special security measures have been planned in view of the incident that took place during the car festival last year when the idol of Lord Balabhadra slipped and fell during pahandi outside the Gundicha temple.
Therefore, a senior officer, along with the guard, will inspect the charmal after it is tied. The Jagannath Temple Police (JTP) and Bhoi servitors will extend necessary cooperation to prevent any mishaps, Chief Administrator of SJTA Arabinda Padhee said after a meeting of Chhatisha Nijog.
The meeting, held at Bhakta Nivas, approved the Rath Yatra rituals and rites. As per the schedule, the Srigundicha Yatra will take place on June 2. The chariot consecration ceremony is slated to be held at 9 am, followed by Pahandi Bije from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm. Srimadanmohan, Sriram, and Srikrishna will enter the chariots between 12.30 pm and 1 pm. Chhera Pahanra ritual will be performed between 2.30 pm and 3.30 pm, and the pulling of chariots will begin at 4 pm.
On July 1, Heera Panchami, the Mahalakshmi Rath Tala Niti will be performed at 9.30 pm, and Jagmohan will be worshipped.
Special arrangements have been made for devotees. They can purchase a ticket of Rs 150 for witnessing the Pahandi ritual up to the Snana Mandap on Snana Purnima.
The temple administration has outlined specific protocols for the Mangalarpan on Sanana Purnima and the Bahuda Pahandi, ensuring a smooth and safe Rath Yatra celebration.
