Puri Jagannath Temple Gets Dedicated Security Battalion for Better Crowd Management

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday approved the formation of a dedicated Special Security Battalion to ensure a safe and seamless experience for devotees at the iconic Puri Jagannath Temple. This 1,190-strong unit, under the command of the Puri SP, will prioritize crowd control and efficient darshan during peak pilgrimage times.

The decision addresses concerns of overcrowding and stampede risks, particularly for women, children, and seniors. With daily visitor numbers averaging 50,000 and expected to rise further after the Srimandir Heritage Corridor’s inauguration next year, proactive security measures were deemed crucial.