July 15 (UDN): Ahead of the holy month of Shravan, the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate Police has issued a traffic advisory to ensure smooth movement of devotees and commuters during the upcoming Bol Bam pilgrimage season.
The Shravan Somvar observance, scheduled from July 30 to August 28, 2026, is expected to witness a significant rise in the movement of devotees every week, especially from Sunday evening to Monday afternoon. Thousands of Kanwariya devotees from Cuttack, Puri, Khordha, and nearby areas are expected to visit major Shiva temples, including Shree Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar and other prominent shrines.
To manage the increased movement of pilgrims and maintain road safety, police authorities have planned special traffic arrangements around key religious locations. Commuters have been advised to expect congestion near temples and procession routes during peak hours and use alternative routes wherever possible.
The advisory includes restrictions on roadside parking near temple areas, and motorists have been requested to use designated parking facilities. Traffic personnel will be deployed at important locations to guide commuters and regulate vehicle movement.
Drivers have been advised to maintain safe speeds, remain cautious near pedestrian zones, give priority to Kanwariya devotees, and avoid unnecessary honking near religious sites.
In Cuttack, special arrangements will be implemented around Gadgadia Ghat on the Mahanadi River, where a large number of devotees are expected to collect holy water. Movement of four-wheelers and commercial vehicles will be regulated near Gadgadia Ghat, Madhusudan Bridge, and Deer Park areas during peak pilgrimage hours. Emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire services, will continue to have free movement.
The Commissionerate Police has appealed to citizens to plan their travel in advance, allow additional time for journeys, and extend cooperation to ensure a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage experience for devotees and the general public.
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