Statewide Holiday for Government Offices and Banks
Odisha will observe a statewide holiday on July 8, 2024, in light of the annual Rath Yatra festivities. All state government offices, including Revenue and Magisterial Courts, as well as banking institutions, will be closed on this day. This decision, announced by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, ensures that government employees and banking staff can participate in or observe the celebrations without work commitments.
Rare Two-Day Festival Observed
The Rath Yatra this year is significant not only for its spiritual and cultural importance but also because it will be celebrated over two days. Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan Majhi, confirmed this unprecedented two-day observance during a high-level meeting dedicated to the festival’s preparations. The last time such an extensive celebration occurred was in 1971, marking this year’s event as particularly noteworthy.
Indian Railways Steps Up for Devotees
In response to the massive influx of pilgrims expected to converge on Puri, the Indian Railways has made extensive arrangements. More than 315 special trains will be operated to ensure seamless travel for devotees from various parts of Odisha and neighboring states. This marks the highest number of special trains ever arranged for the Rath Yatra, reflecting the festival’s significance and the anticipated large number of attendees.
Comprehensive Train Services
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has strategically planned special train services to cover a wide array of routes and locations. Special trains will be available from significant cities and towns such as Badampahad, Rourkela, Balasore, Sonepur, Daspalla, and Paradip, including routes via Kendrapara. These services ensure extensive connectivity, facilitating smooth transportation for those attending the festival.
Reserved Class Accommodations
For the convenience of pilgrims, special attention has been given to provide reserved class accommodations on trains from key locations such as Jagdalpur, Raipur, Visakhapatnam, Malda Town, and Sealdah. These trains will have limited stoppages to ensure quick and comfortable travel to Puri. Additional services from Junagarh Road, Sonepur, Sambalpur, Paradeep, Angul, Bhadrak, Khordha Road, and other regions will cater to the broader population, including all intermediate stations and passenger halts.
Unprecedented Connectivity for Rath Yatra
Special trains from various regions, including Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal, will enhance connectivity to Puri. Trains from Visakhapatnam, Jagdalpur, Palasa, Sompeta, and other significant locations will operate with strategic stops to facilitate easy access for all devotees. This comprehensive transportation plan underscores the importance of the Rath Yatra and ensures that devotees from far and wide can participate in the festivities.
By ensuring widespread rail connectivity and declaring a public holiday, the Odisha government and Indian Railways have demonstrated their commitment to supporting and facilitating the grand Rath Yatra celebrations, allowing devotees to fully immerse themselves in the spiritual and cultural experience.
(With inputs from agencies)
