The 148th Jagannath Rath Yatra is just hours away, set to take place on Friday, June 27. This is a significant event for devotees in Ahmedabad. The Jagannath Temple Trust and the police have made extensive arrangements to ensure the smooth running of the procession.
To avoid any issues for the public, the Ahmedabad police have declared certain areas as ‘no parking zones’. This announcement comes from Police Commissioner G.S. Malik. The order will be in effect from midnight on June 26 until the Rath Yatra is completed.
Anyone who violates this order will face legal action under Section 33 of the Gujarat Police Act, 1951. The police have identified several key areas around the Jagannath Temple that will be affected.
These areas include roads such as Jamalpur Darwaja, Jamalpur Chakla, Vaishyasabha, Khamsa, Golalimda, Astodia Chakla, and many others. The no parking zones will cover all public roads within the vicinity of the temple, ensuring that the procession can occur without any hindrance.
The Rath Yatra is more than just a celebration; it is a time for devotion. Mahendra Jha, a trustee of the Jagannath Temple, emphasized the importance of the event. He stated that the Rath Yatra is not merely a means of entertainment but a time for prayer and reflection.
This year, the Rath Yatra has a budget of 46 lakh rupees, with an insurance coverage of 1 crore rupees. The procession will feature 18 decorated elephants, 101 traditional trucks showcasing Indian culture, and numerous performance groups. Around 1,000 to 1,200 volunteers will assist in pulling the chariot, and an estimated 2,500 saints from across the country will participate.
The Chief Minister will perform the ceremonial start of the procession, known as the ‘Pahind Vidhi’, at 5 AM, followed by traditional dance performances. Devotees can expect to receive various offerings, including 30,000 servings of moong, along with other fruits and snacks, as part of the festivities.
With careful planning and community involvement, the 148th Rath Yatra promises to be a grand and memorable event for all attendees. The city of Ahmedabad is ready to welcome thousands of devotees and ensure a safe and joyous celebration.
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