Gujarat Rath Yatra 2026: Over 200 processions across state; Ahmedabad yatra under high security, says DGP GS Malik
Ahmedabad, July 16
The sacred Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra commenced across Gujarat on Thursday, with Gujarat Director General of Police GS Malik stating that more than 200 processions will be taken out across the state and elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the peaceful conduct of the annual festival.
Speaking to reporters about the state's preparedness, DGP GS Malik said police personnel have been deployed across Gujarat to maintain vigilance during the processions, with special focus on Ahmedabad's historic Rath Yatra, which is considered the most sensitive event in the state.
"More than 200 Rath Yatras will be taken out at different places across Gujarat. For this, arrangements have been made by the police throughout Gujarat. The 149th Rath Yatra of Ahmedabad is considered the most sensitive. The arrangements here are also very good," DGP GS Malik said.
Earlier on July 14, speaking to the media during the route inspection, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi stated that the 149th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath will be taken out along its traditional 16.2-km route, with three main chariots, 18 elephants, 103 trucks, 30 akhadas, and several devotional music groups participating in the procession.
Elaborating on the security arrangements, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the entire Rath Yatra route has been divided into 26 ranges, 53 areas and 1,397 security points. To ensure enhanced security arrangements, more than 30,000 police personnel, including 10 IGs/DIGs, 42 DCPs and 88 ACPs, have been deployed along with 15 State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) and nine Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
As per the release, highlighting the use of advanced technology, Deputy CM stated that smart policing initiatives powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), advanced monitoring systems and 3D mapping have been deployed to strengthen security arrangements for this year's Rath Yatra.
More than 100 drones will provide live aerial surveillance, while GPS, CCTV cameras and decibel meters will monitor the elephants. Advanced technologies such as body-worn cameras, a high-tech wireless communication system, an AI voice bot, anti-drone guns, and AI-powered facial recognition cameras have also been deployed to strengthen surveillance and assist in identifying suspicious elements and criminals.
Meanwhile, the three sacred chariots, Nandighosha of Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja of Lord Balabhadra and Darpadalana of Devi Subhadra, are set to be brought from the Rathakhala to the front of the Jagannath Temple following the traditional Agyan Mala Bije ritual, marking the final preparations for the annual Rath Yatra.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of Hinduism's most significant festivals, attracts lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad every year, with elaborate security and logistical arrangements in place to ensure its smooth and peaceful conduct.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who attended the Rath Yatra in Puri last year, I'm glad to see similar attention to security in Gujarat. It's a beautiful festival that brings so many people together. Hopefully the weather cooperates this year! ☀️
While I appreciate the security measures, I hope the authorities also ensure minimal inconvenience to locals. The road closures and diversions can be tough for daily commuters. Also, hope the elephants are well cared for amidst all the monitoring tech.
Impressive deployment of resources. 30,000 police personnel plus drones and AI is no joke. But I wonder if the budget for this could also be used for other pressing needs. Anyway, hope everyone stays safe and the yatra goes smoothly.
This is my first time attending the Ahmedabad Rath Yatra! So excited to see the three chariots and the elephants. The security seems very comprehensive. Thank you to the police and volunteers for their hard work. Har Har Mahadev! 🚩
It's great that the festival is being celebrated with such tradition and security. However, I hope the authorities also keep a check on the environmental impact—like noise pollution from the music trucks and crowds. Just a thought for sustainable festivals.
T Tanya I P We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.