DGP directs cops to chalk out security plans to manage New Year rush in Puri

Bhubaneswar: With the New Year celebrations expected to draw massive crowds to Puri, DGP Y B Khurania on Tuesday directed the district police to chalk out a comprehensive security plan to ensure the safety of visitors and smooth darshan at the Jagannath Temple.

The directive comes amid anticipation of heavy footfall at both the shrine and the beach, two of the most popular destinations in Puri during the holiday season.Chairing a high-level meeting with senior police officers, including several who earlier served as Puri SPs, Khurania sought their inputs to fine-tune the arrangements. He emphasised that foolproof crowd control measures must be in place inside and outside the temple to prevent untoward incidents.

The DGP also underscored the importance of effective traffic management to handle the surge of vehicles expected during the New Year rush.Khurania instructed that devotees should be properly frisked before being allowed entry into the shrine, citing security concerns. “Safety of visitors and hassle-free darshan remain our top priorities,” Khurania said, urging officers to adopt a meticulous approach in planning and execution.

The DGP also highlighted the need for heightened vigilance along Puri beach, which attracts thousands of tourists during the period. He advised the deployment of additional police personnel for patrolling and directed the authorities to station lifeguards at strategic points to prevent drowning incidents. “Tourists must feel secure both at the temple and on the beach,” Khurania added.The meeting also discussed coordination with local administration and temple authorities to streamline entry and exit points, regulate queues and ensure medical facilities are readily available.

Senior officers were tasked with preparing contingency plans to deal with emergencies, including stampedes or natural hazards.Police sources said the comprehensive plan will be rolled out in the coming days, with mock drills likely to be conducted to test preparedness. ADG (railways) Arun Bothra said adequate preparations are being planned to handle the rush of passengers and their safety at the Puri station.