Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Odisha on June 20 to attend a mega celebration marking the first anniversary of the BJP’s maiden government in the state, a milestone event that underscores the party’s growing political footprint in eastern India. Although the official anniversary fell on June 12, the main function has been scheduled for June 20 to coincide with the Prime Minister’s visit, according to Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari. As part of the high-profile event, massive security arrangements have been put in place across Bhubaneswar, with the Commissionerate Police deploying 133 platoons of police to ensure smooth proceedings and public safety during the visit.
Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is preparing to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With over two lakh people anticipated to attend the Prime Minister’s roadshow and public address at Janata Maidan, city authorities have launched one of the most comprehensive security and logistical operations in recent memory. The occasion not only underlines the Prime Minister’s growing engagement with eastern India but also the state’s commitment to ensuring the event’s success and safety.
Event Overview: Public Address and Roadshow to Draw Massive Crowds
The visit includes a grand roadshow beginning from Biju Patnaik International Airport and moving through prominent city landmarks such as AG Square, Raj Bhawan Square, and Jaydev Vihar, culminating at Janata Maidan, where the Prime Minister will address a large gathering. The event is seen as a significant political and administrative milestone, aimed at energizing local engagement and reinforcing government initiatives in Odisha.
Recognizing the scale and importance of the occasion, the Odisha government has declared a half-day holiday for all government offices and Revenue/Magisterial courts within the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation limits.
Robust Security Measures: 133 Platoons, Top Officials, and Surveillance Deployed
The Commissionerate Police, under the leadership of Police Commissioner Suresh Chandra Devdatta Singh, has rolled out a massive security apparatus to safeguard the event. This includes:
· 133 platoons of police personnel
· 16 senior officers of DCP or SP rank
· 33 additional DCPs
· 93 ACPs or DSPs
· 106 inspectors
· 455 sub-inspectors and ASIs
· 189 women police personnel
· 291 home guards
Additional reinforcements include central forces, bomb disposal squads, and intelligence units, ensuring a multi-layered security blanket around all key locations and the roadshow route.
Traffic Management: City Movement to Be Significantly Affected
Given the expected turnout and scale, traffic restrictions will be in force from 3 PM to 6 PM, or until the conclusion of the event. Authorities have outlined specific routes for incoming vehicles and set up designated parking areas at:
· Airport Golei to Pani Tanki
· Meteorological Ground
· Shastrinagar to Engineering School
In a bid to reduce congestion, six-wheeler and larger goods carriers will be diverted, while emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire services will retain unimpeded access.
Coordination and Planning: A Unified Civic Effort
The preparations have been closely coordinated through high-level meetings involving all departments. The police have issued advisories for commuters, encouraging residents to avoid congested zones and plan travel accordingly. The security blueprint reflects both the gravity of the visit and the city’s growing role in national-level engagements.
A Showcase of Odisha’s Preparedness and National Relevance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit is more than a ceremonial event—it is a testament to Odisha’s increasing prominence in India’s political and developmental landscape. The meticulous planning, full-scale security deployment, and public mobilization underline the state’s ability to host events of national importance with competence and grace.
As Bhubaneswar turns into a high-security zone on June 20, the visit stands as a proud moment for Odisha, reflecting the collaborative effort of administration, law enforcement, and citizens in welcoming the nation’s leader with both security and spirit.
(With agency inputs)
