Preparations are in full swing for the 149th Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra, which will be held in Ahmedabad on Ashadhi Bij (July 16).
The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), police and Jagannath Temple administration have completed most of the arrangements to ensure the procession is conducted smoothly and safely.Senior officials, including the city mayor, deputy mayor, local MLA and trustees of the Jagannath Temple, recently inspected the entire Rath Yatra route from the Jamalpur temple to Saraspur.
Roads repaired ahead of the procession
The inspection focused on road repairs and other civic works to ensure devotees, chariots and vehicles face no difficulty during the yatra. Officials said all major repair work has been completed in advance this year.
Safety measures along the route
The AMC has taken special steps to deal with old and unsafe buildings along the route. Notices have been issued to owners of dangerous structures, and unsafe portions have been removed. Protective covers have also been installed where needed, while police and civic teams will remain deployed at sensitive spots during the procession.The civic body has also trimmed large trees that could obstruct the movement of the chariots.
Officials praise preparations
Jagannath Temple trustee Mahendra Jha said the route inspection found no major issues and praised the administration for completing the work ahead of schedule.
Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha Jain said all departments have worked together to ensure a safe and hassle-free Rath Yatra, with special attention given to road conditions, public safety and security arrangements.