Ananya Lohia , Bhubaneswar -  At least 33 devotees were rescued after getting caught in heavy crowd congestion during the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri on Thursday. The Odisha Fire and Emergency Services provided immediate medical assistance before shifting them to nearby hospitals.

According to the Odisha Police, the Special Rescue Unit rescued 33 devotees from crowded areas during the grand procession. The affected devotees were given first aid and oxygen support before being taken to hospitals for further treatment. Earlier in the day, another devotee who reportedly fainted amid the massive gathering was also rushed for medical care.

Lakhs of devotees gathered in Puri for the annual Rath Yatra as Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra embarked on their sacred chariot procession. Authorities deployed extensive security, medical teams and crowd-management measures to ensure the festival remained safe and orderly, especially after last year's stampede near the Gundicha Temple claimed three lives.

With lakhs of pilgrims taking part in the grand festival, officials continue to monitor the situation closely, prioritising the safety and well-being of devotees throughout the Rath Yatra celebrations.