Ahmedabad’s 149th Rath Yatra: 10 Drones, Police Drivers in Every Truck, and AMC Repair Teams to Boost Security
Ahmedabad: Ahmedabad is set to host its 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra on July 16, coinciding with Ashadhi Bij, when Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra will embark on the annual procession to bless devotees.
This year’s Rath Yatra will feature 18 decorated elephants, bhajan mandalis, beautifully adorned trucks, and traditional akhadas showcasing martial arts performances. To ensure smooth conduct and enhanced security during the procession, Ahmedabad Police have introduced several new measures, including Aadhaar-based verification of participants, deployment of police drivers in every truck, and real-time drone surveillance.
10 Drones to Monitor the Entire Rath Yatra Route
According to officials, all organisers, coordinators, truck owners and drivers participating in the procession will undergo mandatory verification through the Pratiraksha Aadhaar-enabled application. Identity cards will be issued only after successful verification.
As part of the security arrangements, every truck participating in the procession will undergo a mechanical fitness inspection by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). In addition, teams from the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) will conduct anti-sabotage checks on all vehicles before they are allowed to join the procession.
Authorities have also made medical check-ups compulsory for all truck drivers to ensure they are fit to operate vehicles during the event.
Police Driver in Every Truck, AMC Repair Teams on Standby
To deal with any emergency during the procession, one police driver will be deployed in every truck alongside the main driver.
Additionally, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) will station special repair vehicles and maintenance teams behind every batch of 10 trucks to provide immediate assistance in case of any mechanical breakdown along the route.
GPS Tracking and Live Drone Surveillance
All trucks and akhadas participating in the Rath Yatra will be equipped with GPS tracking systems for real-time location monitoring throughout the procession.
To strengthen surveillance, Ahmedabad Police will deploy 10 high-tech drones to conduct live aerial monitoring of the entire route.
Special pushing squads will accompany the akhadas to help manage crowds and maintain security. Police will also inspect the sound systems and ensure that DJ music remains within the permitted noise limits before the procession begins.
Adding to the attractions this year, special tableaux by Gujarat Police, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, and the Legal Cell will also be part of the 149th Rath Yatra procession for devotees.