Puri, July 17 (UDN): The iconic chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra are rolling through Puri’s Grand Road during Rath Yatra 2026 with an upgraded braking system designed to improve safety and ensure better control of the massive wooden structures.
The improved braking mechanism has been introduced to enhance the operational safety of the three chariots, each weighing over 40 tonnes, during one of the world’s largest religious processions. The technology helps manage the movement of the chariots and provides better control during the traditional journey.
In earlier years, the heavy chariots often continued moving after gaining momentum, creating challenges in controlling their speed and increasing safety concerns. The introduction of a dedicated braking system has helped address these challenges and improve crowd safety during the festival.
This year, a waterproof version of the braking system has been incorporated after previous observations showed that rainfall could affect the durability and performance of certain components. The upgraded design aims to ensure smoother functioning even under changing weather conditions.
Technical teams involved in the preparation of the chariots said the enhanced system is focused on maintaining safety without affecting the traditional practices associated with Rath Yatra.
The adoption of improved safety measures reflects the continued efforts of authorities and technical experts to preserve the centuries-old tradition while ensuring a safer experience for millions of devotees participating in the annual festival.
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