Massive security in Puri for Lord Jagannath's Bahuda Yatra after deadly stampede
Three people died in a stampede near the Gundicha temple on June 29 amid the festivities.
An officer said 6,000 state police personnel and 800 CAPF personnel will be deployed in Temple Town to ensure that no such incident occurs.
Special traffic arrangements have also been made with the anticipation that a huge turnout will be recorded since the weather is favourable, he said.
Over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed to keep a tab on the crowd and mischief-makers, he added.
Senior police officers, led by DGP YB Khurania, are camping in the seaside town to ensure a smooth Bahuda Yatra, during which the trinity -- Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Lord Jagannath -- will return to the 12th-century shrine in their chariots or raths after spending a week at Gundicha temple, considered their birthplace.
"We have taken all possible measures to ensure the festival concludes smoothly," Khurania told reporters.
According to the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), the 'pahandi' or procession of the deities will be held at 12 pm.
Puri's titular 'king' Gajapati Maharaja Divyasingha Deb will perform ceremonial sweeping of the chariots, known as Chhera Pahanra, between 2.30 pm and 3.30 pm.
This will be followed by fitting horses on chariots. The chariot pulling will be held at 4 pm.
Thousands of devotees witnessed the idols at the Gundicha temple on Friday evening during the 'sandhya darshan' ritual.
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