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Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath is organized on a large scale in Puri, Odisha. During this time, devotees from all over the world come to pull the rope of the chariot of Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra and have darshan. Despite the huge crowd, the faith of the devotees does not diminish. Now, to strengthen the security arrangements during the 2026 Rath Yatra, the Puri district administration has taken some important decisions.

An area of ​​5 kilometers has been declared a no flying zone by the administration. Under this decision, from July 16 to July 27, no person or organization will be able to use drones or unmanned aircraft systems without permission. Strict legal action will be taken against those who violate the rules.

Puri administration’s decision regarding Rath Yatra

A notification has been issued by the Puri administration in which it has been said that lakhs of devotees are likely to come to Puri during the Rath Yatra, Bahuda Yatra and various religious rituals associated with it. This decision has been taken in view of the huge crowd and security reasons. The administration says that uncontrolled operation of drones can affect the security system. In such a situation, the possibility of any untoward incident cannot be ruled out.

Complete ban on drone operations

The notification states that there will be a ban on operation, flying and launching of any type of drone within a radius of 5 kilometers in and around Puri city during the period of the ban. Agencies authorized for official work have been given exemption for this. Drones can be used only with the permission of the competent authority for purposes such as security operations, aerial surveillance, photography, videography, documentation, mapping and disaster management.

Action will be taken on violation

It has been made clear by the administration that only those agencies will be able to operate drones. Those who must have been granted special permission from the District Administration and Superintendent of Police. Apart from this, if any person violates the order then many legal actions will be taken against him. A case will be registered under the Indian Civil Defense Code 2023, Aircraft Act 1934, Aircraft Rules 1934, Drone Rules 2021 and other applicable laws.

Lakhs of devotees are expected to arrive

Let us tell you that Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the biggest religious events not only in the country but also in the world. Every year lakhs of devotees reach Puri to participate in it. In such a situation, security agencies and administration are busy in preparations.