Odisha’s famous historic ‘Balijatra’ festival (trade & commerce fair) in Cuttack kicks off today on the Barbati Fort area and Banks of Mahanadi River. It calls for the magnificent and fearless journeys of Kalingan traders into the nations of Southeast Asia.
Between 350 BC and the 16th century AD, trade links existed between Odisha (Kalinga) and Bali in Indonesia. In ancient times, Odia Sadhabas (mariners) shipped a wide range of essential commodities to Indonesia.
Due to the large crowds expected for Balijatra, elaborate police arrangements have been made. In addition to the over 50 platoons of police officers and officers from the district, more than 100 officers from outside the district have been mobilized for deployment.
A fullproof traffic arrangement has been implemented. There are parking spaces available. People will be required to park their vehicles in designated areas and either walk or take an e-rickshaw shuttle to the venue.
People from all over the world will be visiting Balijatra this year, and more visitors are expected during the nine-day trade fair, which was canceled the previous two years due to the Corona pandemic. There are a total of eight parking spaces available. Parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Commissionerate Police has set up 20 police aid posts for the safety and security of visitors as well as crowd management. In addition, four Police Support Centres have been set up wherein various facilities will be available to visitors.
Source:OCN