Odisha CM approves special security battalion for Sri Jagannath temple

Bhubaneswar:  In a significant move, the Odisha government declared on Monday the formation of a Special Security Battalion dedicated to the Puri Sri Jagannath temple. The decision, approved by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, came after consultations with stakeholders including 5T Chairman. According to a state government release, the establishment of this battalion is aimed at guaranteeing comprehensive security for Srimandir Puri, effective crowd control, and smooth facilitation of devotees.

In the post-COVID era, the daily influx of devotees was estimated at approximately fifty thousand, a number that significantly rises during weekends and important religious events. With the inauguration of the new Heritage Corridor Project – Srimandira Parikrama Prakalp, it is anticipated that the flow of devotees will experience a substantial increase.

The newly formed battalion, comprising approximately 1190 personnel, will undergo specialized training to excel in crowd management and provide optimal support to tourists and devotees. Their primary responsibility will be to guarantee comprehensive security for the temple, ensuring a hassle-free and orderly darshan experience for all devotees. The Special Security Battalion will operate under the command and control of the Superintendent of Police, Puri.

The world renowned Shri Jagannath Temple has been envisioned and designed to enhance security measures, improve devotee facilitation, and implement effective crowd management. Serving as the focal point of Hindu faith, the Jagannath temple attracts a multitude of devotees on a daily basis.