Puri Jagannath Temple to Use Anti-Drone Technology for Security

The Odisha government has announced the installation of anti-drone technology at the sacred Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, marking a significant step in safeguarding one of India’s holiest pilgrimage sites.

This initiative follows the arrest of a Haryana-based YouTuber who allegedly captured unauthorized aerial footage of the temple. Concerns over espionage, security breaches, and the potential misuse of drones have prompted swift action from authorities.

According to Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, the new system will detect, track, and neutralize drones flying within restricted airspace. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) will fund and oversee the implementation.

The anti-drone system is part of broader security enhancements ahead of the Rath Yatra 2025, scheduled for June 27, which is expected to attract over a million devotees. Additional measures include:

Deployment of 240 more police personnel

Formation of the Swatantra Shree Mandir Surakshya Vahini, a specialized security force of 1,083 personnel

Upgraded surveillance infrastructure and perimeter controls

The Jagannath Temple joins other major religious sites like the Tirumala Tirupati Temple in adopting high-tech security to address modern threats. The government aims to ensure both the safety of devotees and the sanctity of the temple during large-scale events.