Digha gears up for first Rath Yatra from new Jagannath Temple with tight security; CM likely to attend

Digha’s newly built Jagannath temple will host its first Rath Yatra this year, prompting large-scale security preparations by the West Bengal administration. The event is expected to attract lakhs of devotees and tourists, including foreign nationals. According to officials, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee may be present during the chariot procession, and arrangements are being made keeping high footfall in mind.

The chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra will start from the new temple and travel approximately one kilometre to the old temple, referred to as ‘Mausi’s House’. Earlier, the plan was to begin the procession from Gate No. 7, but it will now proceed from the southern gate, taking the route via National Highway 116B. This change was confirmed by ISKCON Kolkata Vice President and temple trust member Radharaman Das.

Security measures include the installation of CCTV cameras along the entire procession route and the deployment of drones for aerial monitoring. Four watch towers are being erected at the corners of the temple premises. The route from the temple to the old temple will also have an increased police presence to prevent any disruption.

Footpaths along the route are being barricaded to manage the movement of pilgrims. Drop gates are being installed at several points on the route to facilitate immediate closure in case of an emergency. Crowd management is a key focus area, and control systems are being coordinated across departments.

Considering the possibility of heavy rainfall and waterlogging during the monsoon season, the drainage system in the area is being repaired and upgraded. Additional water pumps are being stationed to ensure timely removal of accumulated rainwater. Efforts are underway to maintain a dry and accessible route for the entire duration of the event.

Medical facilities are being set up on both sides of the chariot route. Drinking water stations and medical camps will be available at regular intervals, with trained staff to provide emergency care if required. State DGP Rajeev Kumar, IG (West Range) Anup Jaiswal, and East Midnapore SP Soumyadeep Bhattacharya have inspected the route and temple area. According to SP Bhattacharya, “All necessary steps are being taken to ensure a peaceful and organised Rath Yatra.” Deployment of additional police personnel from other districts is under consideration, but final numbers are yet to be confirmed.