Dilip Ray calls for Coordinated Efforts at Nabakalebara Rath Yatra 2015

Senior BJP leader and Rourkela MLA Dilip Ray has raised concerns about the safety and security of the people ahead of Nabakalebara Rath Yatra on July 18. With less than 48 hours to go, he sought everyone’s cooperation to make the festival a grand success so that the pride and dignity of Lord Jagannath as well as people of Odisha are maintained.

“Many infrastructure projects remain incomplete although we are all set to organize the grand event. Although traffic control measures in and around Puri are in place, the influx of tourists from across the globe could clog roads connecting to Puri. There should be all-round efforts to manage the traffic at critical junctions to avoid chaos”, he said.

Dilip Ray also emphasised on better sanitation facilities for the pilgrims, as  it could pose severe health hazard to the visitors if not properly taken care of. He pointed out the water-logging at the Grand Road in the event of heavy rains. As there is a rain forecast during the Rath Yatra, the administration must stay alert to deal with the situation, he added.

Mr. Ray has a valid point here. Since many roads were constructed in haste and drainage system remains average, things may go from bad to worse if no proper action is taken. On July 11, all claims made by the administration, were exposed when two-hour rains led to massive water-logging and traffic jam in Puri.

Citing the stampede at ‘Maha Pushkarulu’ event in  Rajahmundry, where 29 people were killed, Dilip Ray asked the government to remain alert and rejig the security arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents.

“It would be prudent for the government had it enrolled and trained young volunteers to assist the security forces and ease off the burden and help the administration to conduct the festival in a more organised and coordinated manner. Without playing the blame game, it’s high time we all join hands to make the festival a big success. I urge everyone to act in a disciplined manner and ensure peaceful and joyous experience to the people of the state as well as the visitors during the Nabakalebara Rath Yatra,” he concluded.