Gandhinagar: A high level review meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi was held to review preparations for the peaceful, safe and harmonious conduct of the 149th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath on the occasion of Ashadhi Bij.

During the meeting, the DyCM conducted a detailed review of all security arrangements, the law and order situation and the preparedness of various departments ahead of the Rath Yatra. He urged the police administration to remain fully prepared to ensure peace and safety throughout the city during the procession. He provided necessary guidance and suggestions regarding the deployment of stringent police security along the Rath Yatra route, smooth traffic management and strengthening of emergency services

He held detailed discussions on the planning of security arrangements for the Rath Yatra. During the meeting, officials presented details regarding visits to sensitive points along the route, interaction with local community leaders and strict preventive action against anti social elements. He emphasised to strengthen security through better coordination between technology and manpower. He urged all departments to ensure complete arrangements so that the Rath Yatra is conducted smoothly in an atmosphere of devotion and enthusiasm.

Notably, several innovative technology based initiatives have been introduced this year to further strengthen the security system during the Rath Yatra. For the first time in the history of the Rath Yatra, the ‘Gajrakshak Smart Tracking System’ will be deployed to ensure the safety and live location monitoring of elephants participating in the procession. In addition, the ‘Pratiraksha’ application will be used for Aadhaar based verification of all truck operators and Akhada organisers participating in the procession. Further, an AI powered facial recognition system operated through the PINAC software, anti drone guns and jammer teams for aerial security, along with a live surveillance network of thousands of CCTV cameras installed across the entire route, have been put in place to ensure comprehensive security.

This meeting was attended by Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Director General of Police Shri G.S. Malik, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Shri Anupam Singh Gehlot, Municipal Commissioner Shri Banchhanidhi Pani, Ahmedabad District Collector Shri Bhavya Verma, senior police officials and officers from various security agencies. They presented detailed information on the holistic action plan prepared for the security of the Rath Yatra.