Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, June 25: The state government Thursday approved a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to be followed during the upcoming Rath Yatra to facilitate smooth conduct of the event, amid widespread criticism over the improper conduct of the Nabakalebara rituals.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, at a meeting at the Secretariat, directed all officials concerned to follow the SOP of the state disaster management authority (OSDMA) during the ‘Rath Yatra’ to be held July 18. As part of the preparations, two Orissa disaster rapid action force (ODRAF) units will be deployed — one at the sea beach and another on Grand Road — on the day of Rath Yatra.
Provisions have also been made for installation of 30 first-aid centres and deployment of 30 ambulance units on Grand Road July 18, said the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). Close circuit cameras would also be installed at the temple during the festival period.
OSDMA would conduct two mock drills ahead of the festival.
The SOP has been prepared keeping in view the stampede during a festival of the Trinity in 2006, sources said. “All the departments linked to the Nabakalebara have prepared their own disaster management plans. Taking all these plans together, OSDMA has prepared a standard operating procedure,” special relief commissioner (SRC) GVV Sarma said.
“The SOP has been prepared for handling of any possible events during the festival period. The officials have been provided with details of the ‘dos’ and don’ts uring the mishaps,” the commissioner said.
Special booklets have been prepared in this regard and these will be distributed among the officials who are in charge of the different works for the Rath Yatra,” he said.
The state government, which is expecting nearly 50lakh pilgrims and tourists during the festival, said last week that no official engaged in Rath Yatra work will be allowed to take leave without prior permission of the Chief Secretary.
