In a move aimed at ensuring public safety, the Commissionerate Police have imposed a cap of 1,800 spectators per show at Khandagiri Jatra pandals this year. The decision was communicated by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) along with detailed guidelines on crowd management and emergency preparedness.
As per the directive, organisers must maintain a minimum three-foot gap between seating rows and ensure wider internal pathways inside pandals to facilitate smooth movement of spectators and quick access for emergency services. Strict adherence to the safety norms has been made mandatory for all Jatra organising committees.
While agreeing to comply with the order, Jatra organisers have raised concerns about the financial implications of the reduced seating capacity. A meeting was held at Khandagiri Police Station between police officials and representatives of six organising committees, following which the organisers agreed to restrict ticket sales to 1,800 per show in the interest of safety and law and order.
Despite the expected losses, organisers have decided not to increase ticket prices, which will remain at Rs 300 and Rs 250. According to the organisers, the seating cap could result in losses of nearly Rs 2 lakh per night.
Police officials reiterated that the restrictions were imposed solely to ensure public safety and the smooth conduct of the annual cultural festival.
