Traffic Curbs in Bhubaneswar for Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

Bhubaneswar: The Commissionerate Police has announced traffic restrictions in Bhubaneswar ahead of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, set to take place from January 8 to 10.

The biennial event will witness the presence of President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and several other dignitaries. The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive on January 8, while the President will visit on January 10.

In light of VIP and VVIP movement, the restrictions aim to ensure safety, security, and smooth traffic flow across the city, the Commissionerate Police said. However, emergency vehicles, including fire brigades and ambulances, will be exempt from these curbs.

More than 7,500 delegates from around the world are expected to attend the event at Janata Maidan. Trinidad and Tobago’s President, Christine Carla Kangaloo, will be the chief guest. Additionally, 27 diaspora members will receive the prestigious ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Samman’ during the event.

Security measures have been significantly heightened, with 83 platoons of police, including 40 platoons from outside the state, over 500 officers, and 12 companies of Central Armed Police Forces being deployed. Special intelligence and anti-terror teams from both the central and state agencies will also be present to oversee security throughout the three-day program.