Bhubaneswar: In anticipation of the forthcoming Rath Yatra, the Ministry of Railways has announced a comprehensive plan to ensure convenience and safety for devotees traveling to Puri by rail. The initiative includes special train services, enhanced safety and security measures, and improved sanitation and cleanliness at station premises to accommodate the large congregation of pilgrims.
Special Train Services:
The Railways will operate over 315 special trains from various parts of Odisha and neighboring states such as Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal. Additional coaches will be attached to these trains to manage the increased passenger load. The implementation of an AI-based dynamic scheduling system will ensure the efficient operation of these special trains.
Additional Ticket Counters:
To handle the influx of pilgrims, round-the-clock ticket counters will be opened at Puri Railway Station. Additional booking counters will also be operational during peak hours at major stations including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Khurda Road, Brahmapur, Balugaon, Khalikot, Paradeep, Bhadrak, and Jajpur Keonjhar Road.
Enquiry Counters and Information Centers:
Puri Railway Station will see the addition of extra enquiry counters, strategically located to assist passengers with information on train schedules, medical assistance, and security. Passenger help desks will also be set up to guide travelers and address their concerns.
Timetable and Publicity:
Train timetable boards will be displayed at strategic locations at Puri Railway Station and other key points. Train indication boards will inform passengers about train schedules and platform departures. Public announcements and leaflet distributions will further educate passengers about the special arrangements for the Rath Yatra.
Mela Shed:
A temporary Mela shed is being erected at Puri Railway Station to accommodate the large number of devotees expected. This facility will provide resting and toilet/bathing amenities, capable of accommodating 15,000 pilgrims at a time.
Catering and Drinking Water:
In addition to the existing Food Plaza at Puri Railway Station, additional stalls will be set up to offer tea, snacks, water bottles, and Janata meals. Multiple drinking water taps and water coolers will ensure passengers have access to cold potable water.
Sanitation and Cleanliness:
A dedicated team of supervisors and staff will maintain cleanliness and sanitation across the station premises, including the Mela shed and surrounding areas, throughout the event.
Medical Assistance:
A round-the-clock medical assistance booth will be operational in the circulating area of Puri Railway Station, staffed with doctors, nurses, and paramedics, and equipped with ambulance services.
Power Supply and Illumination:
The Railways will ensure uninterrupted power supply at Puri Railway Station, facilitating continuous operation of lights, fans, and other electrical equipment.
LC Gate Management:
Additional manpower, including GRP personnel, will be deployed at level crossing gates to manage the heavy flow of road traffic and ensure smooth train services.
Humble Services and Safety:
As in previous years, the Railways will provide trained personnel and tools to assist in any breakdowns of chariots during the Rath Yatra and help with the turning of the chariots. Extensive safety arrangements include deploying large contingents of RPF, sniffer dogs, and GRP, as well as fire service personnel and fire tenders. CCTV cameras will be installed to monitor activities at Puri Railway Station, and crowd management measures will be implemented.
The Ministry of Railways’ extensive preparations reflect their commitment to ensuring a safe, comfortable, and seamless travel experience for devotees attending the Rath Yatra.