Puri: The district police here have made elaborate preparations to ensure Srimandir devotees a hassle-free darshan of the deities during the New Year. Speaking to reporters, Puri Superintendent of Police (SP) Kanwar Vishal Singh said as part of the drive against anti-socials, hotels, lodgings, and vehicles are being inspected after sundown. He said darshan arrangements have been divided into two parts – within and outside the shrine. “Temple premises arrangements have been divided into seven sectors and outside into nine. Depending on sensitivity, DSP, ASP, and inspector-rank officials, along with adequate force, will be deployed,” the Puri SP said, adding that separate darshan arrangements will be made for senior citizens and the differently-abled. A dedicated center will be set up near Srimandir to collect post-darshan feedback from devotees. The beach area will be made a hotspot patrolling area and three police outposts will be set up there, Singh said.
About the traffic arrangements, the Puri SP said, “With motto of ‘minimum restrictions’, we’ll make sure those coming to Puri can park vehicles in a hassle-free manner.” A green corridor will be created for plying of emergency vehicles like ambulances. Grand Road and beach area will be made into a ‘no vehicle zone’, he added. “Signages will be put up at all key locations to guide visitors to the temple. Volunteers will be roped in to regulate devotees,” the Puri SP said. Five police control rooms, or help aid posts, will also be set up on Grand Road and other key places. “Police and healthcare personnel will be present there to aid devotees,” Singh said, seeking cooperation from the locals for a peaceful New Year.
