Odisha Gears Up for Puri Rath Yatra 2027 with Major Infrastructure Overhaul
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has initiated comprehensive preparations for the world-famous Puri Rath Yatra 2027, launching a series of infrastructure, healthcare, transport, and public safety projects aimed at ensuring smooth management of one of the country’s largest religious gatherings.
The decision was taken during a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg, where officials from multiple departments discussed strategies to accommodate millions of devotees expected to visit Puri during the annual chariot festival.
As part of the preparations, the government has prioritised road widening, traffic management, parking infrastructure, healthcare facilities, sanitation measures, and technological upgrades across the pilgrim town.
Officials revealed that 865 pieces of timber are required for the construction of the three chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
While 100 pieces remain available from previous stock, arrangements are being made to procure the remaining timber through the Forest Department.
Several key road projects have been identified, including the repair of the Biraharekrushnapur-Balighat road, widening of Matiapada Road, and strengthening of connecting routes to streamline vehicular movement during the festival.
Authorities have also been instructed to begin anti-encroachment drives along the Grand Road well in advance.
To improve transport infrastructure, plans include the development of multi-level parking facilities, dedicated parking zones for light motor vehicles, and enhanced bus terminal services.
The state government is also aiming to complete the new Puri Railway Station building before the commencement of Rath Yatra 2027.
Technology will play a significant role in crowd management.
The second phase of the Integrated Control and Command Centre is expected to be operational by March 2027, enabling real-time monitoring of crowd movement, traffic flow, weather conditions, and emergency response mechanisms.
Healthcare infrastructure in Puri is also set for substantial upgrades.
A permanent hospital facility at Malatipatpur Bus Stand and the relocation of the District Headquarters Hospital to modern premises are among the major initiatives.
Health camps, trained volunteers, and emergency response teams will be deployed along key pilgrimage routes.
The government further plans to install 22 to 25 permanent telecom towers to strengthen mobile connectivity during the festival.
Large LED display systems integrated with public announcement networks will help disseminate information to devotees in real time.
Sanitation, waste management, drainage, and power infrastructure improvements are also being undertaken to ensure a clean and uninterrupted pilgrimage experience.
Special attention is being given to disaster preparedness, including deployment of high-capacity pumps to tackle waterlogging and strengthening beach safety arrangements.
With preparations beginning nearly three years in advance, the Odisha government aims to set new benchmarks in managing the globally renowned Rath Yatra while ensuring the comfort, safety, and convenience of visiting devotees.
