As Ahmedabad readies for Lord Jagannath’s 149th Rath Yatra, a significant security operation is in place. The procession, starting at 7 a.m. from the Jagannath Temple, will cover a 16.2 km route through the city. The event, drawing devotees from across Gujarat and beyond, involves extensive security measures.
The security setup includes 30,000 police personnel, AI surveillance, and drone monitoring. The procession will feature the three chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, along with elephants and devotional groups. The authorities have taken a zero-risk approach despite no specific threats being reported.
Technology plays a crucial role in ensuring safety, with over 3,700 CCTV cameras and AI software monitoring the event. Facial recognition technology has been employed to identify individuals of concern. Aerial surveillance using drones and anti-drone measures further enhance security measures.
Community engagement and preventive policing efforts have been integral to the preparations. Various programs, including blood donation drives and sports tournaments, aim to foster communal harmony. The police have also taken preventive actions against potential disruptions and anti-social elements.
The security arrangements extend to elephant management, with specialized equipment to monitor their well-being. Lessons from past incidents have shaped this year’s measures, emphasizing coordination and communication. The deployment of personnel and technology aims to ensure a safe and peaceful Rath Yatra.
