Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The state police have announced a massive security operation called “Mission Suraksha 2026,” emphasizing a “Zero-Tolerance, Maximum-Safety” strategy, as thousands of devotees and visitors get ready to welcome 2026 at holy sites and beaches around Odisha. Puri, Khurda, Cuttack, Nayagarh, Jajpur, Jagatsinghpur, and Kendrapada are the seven important districts covered by the effort. A total of 150 police platoons will be stationed throughout these regions, with the largest concentration—60 platoons—in Puri, where huge lines are already developing at Shree Jagannath Temple and hotels are completely booked.
DIG Central Range Satyajit Naik met with the SP in advance to go over the plans. “Maintaining a balance between celebration and safety is our top responsibility. The DIG stated that the deployment consists of 179 lifeguards for beach and water body vigilance, Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams, and Special Tactical Units. “Special crowd regulation will be done at Shree Jagannath Temple, Biraja Temple (Jajpur), and Baldevjew Temple (Kendrapada).”
High-footfall zones like Puri beach and Kantilo Nilamadhab will be monitored via high-definition CCTV and drones. In view of recent concerns over crimes against women in tourist spots, intensified patrolling and plainclothes women officers will be stationed in vulnerable areas – Puri Blue Flag Beach, Siali Sea Beach, Paradeep, Chilika and Bhitarkanika – to curb public nuisance. To tackle road safety, round-the-clock checkpoints will enforce strict measures against drunken driving and overspeeding. One-way traffic systems, designated parking zones, and highway interceptors will help manage congestion, while mobile bike and van patrols will assist travellers on longer routes.
Crackdowns on narcotics and illicit liquor trade have also been prioritised. “This year, we are not just managing crowds — we are ensuring every visitor returns home safe,” Naik emphasised.
