Over 31,000 cops, 240-plus observation points among extensive security measures for Ahmedabad’s Rath Yatra

New Delhi, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: More than 31,000 police personnel will be deployed for the 149th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Ahmedabad on July 16, with the procession to be monitored through over 240 terrace observation points, 65 drones, and more than 2,800 body-worn cameras as part of what the city police described as a “zero-risk” security strategy.

The Rath Yatra, or chariot festival, is an important Hindu event that draws thousands of devotees and tourists, not just from Gujarat but from across the country and beyond. The festival celebrates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, a deity worshipped primarily in the state of Odisha, as he travels from his temple to his garden in the countryside. This year marks the 149th iteration of the event in Ahmedabad, which has become a significant cultural and religious occasion for the local population.

The security and civic arrangements for the annual procession were reviewed by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel at a high-level meeting in Gandhinagar ahead of the Ashadhi Bij festival, when the traditional Rath Yatra will take place. The Ashadhi Bij is a festival that marks the beginning of the monsoon season and holds cultural significance in many parts of Gujarat.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Rath Yatra is conducted peacefully and safely, not only for the main procession but also for the numerous smaller Rath Yatras scheduled across Gujarat. There are around 230 Rath Yatras planned, including six mini Rath Yatras in Ahmedabad city. This highlights the widespread participation and enthusiasm for the event, which fosters a sense of community and belonging among the residents.

Chief Minister Patel directed the police to take every possible precaution to prevent any untoward incident, reflecting the government’s commitment to maintaining public safety during large gatherings. He also instructed the Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani to implement strict measures to prevent people from gathering around dilapidated buildings and structures located along the Rath Yatra route for viewing the procession. This is particularly important given the potential hazards posed by such structures, which could pose risks to public safety during the large influx of attendees.

Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gahlaut gave a presentation on the preparations being made for the event, saying that “the city police are working with complete alertness and preparedness to ensure the procession passes off peacefully under a ‘zero-risk’ approach with the deployment of more than 31,000 police personnel.” This deployment is indicative of the scale and significance of the event, as well as the authorities' commitment to ensuring the safety of all participants.

According to the presentation, Ahmedabad City Police will oversee the procession through more than 240 terrace observation points, 65 drones, and over 2,800 body-worn cameras. This extensive surveillance strategy aims to provide real-time monitoring of the event, enabling law enforcement to respond swiftly to any incidents that may arise. The use of drones and body cameras represents a modern approach to security management at large public events, enhancing situational awareness and accountability among police personnel.

In addition to police presence, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation will also deploy 15 medical officers, 100 health personnel, 31 fire vehicles, and 237 fire service personnel during the event. This comprehensive emergency response plan underscores the city's commitment to ensuring that medical and fire services are readily available to address any emergencies that may occur during the festivities.

The 16-km Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath will feature 101 trucks, 30 akhadas (traditional wrestling schools), and 18 bhajan mandalis (groups singing devotional songs) participating in the procession. The participation of various cultural and religious groups not only enriches the event but also fosters a sense of unity among the diverse communities in Ahmedabad.

As part of preparations to maintain peace and communal harmony, Ahmedabad Police have organized 69 Peace Committee meetings, 79 Mohalla Committee meetings, and around 178 meetings with religious leaders from different communities before the procession. These meetings are crucial for fostering dialogue and understanding among different community groups, helping to mitigate any potential tensions that could arise during the festival. The involvement of religious leaders is particularly significant, as they play a vital role in guiding their communities and promoting peaceful coexistence.

Police Commissioner Gahlaut said: “Blood donation camps, night cricket and volleyball matches, Lok Dayra cultural programmes, and interaction sessions with Gen Z had also been organised to further strengthen communal harmony.” These initiatives reflect a proactive approach to community engagement, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and fostering goodwill among residents. Such activities not only serve to enhance communal ties but also encourage positive interactions among different demographic groups, including the youth.

The review meeting was attended by Chief Secretary M.K. Das; Director General of Police (DGP) G.S. Malik; and other senior officials, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various government departments to ensure the successful execution of the Rath Yatra. The involvement of high-ranking officials underscores the significance of the event and the government's commitment to public safety and community welfare.

In conclusion, the extensive security measures and community engagement initiatives planned for Ahmedabad's Rath Yatra reflect a comprehensive strategy aimed at ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants. As the festival approaches, the meticulous planning and coordination among various stakeholders will play a crucial role in facilitating a peaceful and harmonious celebration of this significant cultural event.