Bhubaneswar: With Rath Yatra scheduled for July 16 amid peak monsoon, the state govt has asked Puri district administration to draw up a comprehensive storm water management and drainage plan to avert rain-related emergencies.Additional chief secretary of the housing and urban development department Usha Padhee said the focus is to ensure a safe and seamless experience for millions of devotees.“Since Rath Yatra coincides with monsoon, we have directed authorities to put in place a foolproof drainage system along Grand Road to address waterlogging. The municipal corporation has assured us that all open drains on the festival route would be covered with concrete slabs by June 30,” she said.Padhee stressed that civic infrastructure must be ready well before the festival. “Timely completion of road repairs, thorough cleaning of drains, enhanced sanitation, adequate lighting and temporary parking facilities are non-negotiable. We want devotees to feel that the city is prepared to welcome them with dignity and care,” she added.Padhee also underlined the importance of uninterrupted drinking water supply and round-the-clock public toilet facilities. “Pilgrims should not struggle for basic amenities. Our directive is clear— every arrangement must reflect respect for the devotees,” Padhee said.To maintain civic discipline, strict enforcement measures have been planned. “Dumping garbage or construction material on public roads will attract heavy penalties. We cannot allow negligence to spoil the sanctity of the festival,” she said.Puri collector Dibyajyoti Parida has been asked to conduct weekly reviews of ongoing works.Officials said sanitation drives are already being carried out twice daily, supported by awareness campaigns urging citizens to keep the city clean. Anti-encroachment operations have been intensified, and stray cattle are being relocated to gaushalas and temporary shelters.“In the interest of public health, it has been decided that only cooked food distribution will be permitted during Rath Yatra, subject to agencies submitting proper waste management plans,” Padhee said.