Elaborate preparations are underway to ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the Jagar Yatra of Lord Lingaraj ahead of Mahashivratri in Bhubaneswar, with a focus on security, traffic regulation, and devotees’ convenience.
A high-level preparatory meeting was held on Thursday to streamline arrangements, as lakhs of devotees are expected to visit the Lingaraj Temple during the festival. Officials discussed crowd control, parking facilities, entry regulation, and emergency preparedness to prevent any untoward incident.
Special traffic and parking plans have been finalised to manage the anticipated rush around the temple area. Separate parking zones and designated traffic routes will be implemented to ease congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement. To prevent misuse of temple entry passes, QR-coded passes have been introduced. Authorities clarified that a pass will be valid only after scanning and can be used only once. Police have warned of strict action against anyone found misusing passes.
Police Commissioner Devdatta Singh said comprehensive security and traffic arrangements have been made in coordination with the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation and the Fire Department to ensure a safe Mahashivratri celebration.
Adding to the festive spirit, renowned singer Nitin Mukesh, along with eight other artistes, is scheduled to visit Bhubaneswar on the occasion.
Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, who attended the meeting, said devotees would be allowed to enter the temple and have darshan within prescribed limitations. He expressed hope that the festival would pass peacefully with the blessings of Lord Lingaraj.
