Puri, Jul 14: With the holy Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath set to be held on July 16, Odisha Police and the Transport Department have announced extensive traffic management measures to ensure a safe and smooth experience for devotees.

This year, special emphasis has been placed on technology-driven monitoring and crowd management. A total of 30 parking zones, including six newly added sites, have been designated across Puri.

To enhance surveillance, drones will monitor traffic activities at three key locations, providing live feeds to the control room for immediate response.

Also read: Heading to Puri? Read This before Booking Your Stay for Rath Yatra 2026

The district police have also introduced a dedicated mobile app, a 24x7 traffic control room, CCTV cameras, and an AI-powered chatbot to provide real-time updates.

Devotees will receive instant information on traffic diversions, parking arrangements, alternative routes, and emergency alerts through bulk SMS services.

For smoother bus operations, four exclusive bus parking zones have been created. Considering the monsoon season, de-watering pumps have been installed at parking sites to prevent waterlogging.

To assist devotees, 1,050 signage, 73 traffic aid posts, and two LED mobile vans have been deployed across the city. The control room will remain functional round-the-clock, keeping constant watch on vehicle movement through CCTV surveillance. Any traffic congestion will be addressed immediately.

Drone surveillance will further strengthen monitoring, with live visuals sent directly to the control room, enabling swift action wherever required.

The measures aim to make the festival not only secure but also free from traffic-related hassles, ensuring maximum convenience for lakhs of devotees expected to attend.