Extensive security network deployed across Puri and Paradip to ensure peaceful conduct of Kartik Purnima, Boita Bandana, and Bali Yatra festivities.
With Odisha gearing up for its most vibrant cultural season, the state police have launched an extensive security plan to safeguard the massive gatherings expected during Kartik Purnima in Puri and Boita Bandana Utsav and Bali Yatra in Paradip, Jagatsinghpur district.
A detailed deployment order, issued under the approval of Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, entrusts senior IPS officers with supervising law and order, crowd management, and emergency response operations across the festival zones.
Top Brass in Action: Senior IPS Officers Assigned Key Roles
As per the official directive, Additional Director General of Police (Modernisation) Soumendra Kumar Priyadarshi will take charge of overall security in Puri, where lakhs of devotees are expected to congregate for the Kartik Purnima rituals.
Mr. Priyadarshi will oversee coordination between local police, temple administration, and district officials to ensure a secure and well-managed celebration in the sacred temple town.
In Paradip, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Cuttack Range, Satyajit Naik will supervise the Boita Bandana Utsav and Bali Yatra festivities. He will lead district police teams and disaster management units to maintain smooth operations during the maritime heritage and trade-themed celebrations that attract large crowds every year.
Integrated Security and Crowd Management Plans
Odisha Police officials emphasized that these deployments form part of a comprehensive crowd and traffic control strategy, designed to minimize risks during the high-footfall events.
Special arrangements include:
Multi-tier security checkpoints and patrolling units in sensitive zones.
Traffic diversions and regulated parking facilities to prevent congestion.
Emergency response teams and medical aid units stationed near major venues.
Drone surveillance and CCTV monitoring to track movement and ensure real-time intervention.
Police personnel have been instructed to coordinate closely with festival committees, temple authorities, and civic bodies to ensure a smooth and safe experience for devotees and tourists alike.
Cultural Heritage Meets Modern Policing
The festivals of Kartik Purnima, Boita Bandana, and Bali Yatra celebrate Odisha’s ancient maritime glory and spiritual traditions. Each year, thousands gather to float miniature boats in rivers and seas, symbolizing the state’s historic trade links with Southeast Asia.
By implementing modern security protocols and inter-agency coordination, the Odisha Police aims to strike a balance between preserving tradition and ensuring public safety. In essence, Odisha’s festive season will shine bright this year — not only with lamps on the rivers but also with the vigilance of those ensuring every celebration remains joyous and secure.
