Puri, Ap 29: Puri police on Monday announced heightened security measures and a total ban on firecrackers during the upcoming Chandan Yatra festival, which begins on Akshaya Tritiya on Wednesday. The move comes in response to the tragic incident of 29th May 2024, when a series of explosions caused by high-intensity crackers at Narendra Pokhari claimed the lives of 17 people, including seven minors.
To ensure a safe and peaceful celebration this year, authorities will deploy five platoons of police personnel at the Narendra Pokhari for the entire 21-day duration of the Bahara Chandan segment of the festival.
“There is a complete ban on firecrackers during the festival. We have instructed our personnel to stay extremely vigilant. Any violations will be met with strict legal action,” stated Puri Superintendent of Police Vinit Agrawal. “We appeal to all devotees to participate in the Chandan Yatra peacefully and without the use of firecrackers.”
SP Agrawal carried out a detailed security review at the Narendra tank along with senior officers. Apart from the five platoons, the deployment will also include one additional SP, five DSPs, eight inspectors, 20 sub-inspectors, four havildars, 37 constables, and 58 home guards to oversee the festival proceedings.
In a new initiative, Puri police will set up a dedicated feedback centre at the Narendra tank for the first time. “This centre will allow visitors to lodge complaints and share their travel experiences, helping us improve services in real-time,” Agrawal added.
The 42-day Chandan Yatra festival, a significant ritual in the Jagannath Temple calendar, is divided into two phases Bahara Chandan and Bhitara Chandan each lasting 21 days. With the shadow of last year’s tragedy looming large, authorities are determined to ensure that this year’s festival is observed with devotion, safety, and discipline.
