AHMEDABAD, INDIA, July 17, 2007: Special precaution has been taken by the Gujarat government on the eve of the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, which will be taken out from the century-old historical Jagannath Temple in the minority dominated Jamalpur area tomorrow on the auspicious occasion of Ashadi Bij. The old city area has already turned into a police line with about 8,000 armed policemen, including BSF and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel, deployed on the 25-km route. Security agencies plan to deploy about 20,000 armed policemen and maintain strict vigil from 30 watch towers and 300 rooftop points at various places in the city. The traditional Rath Yatra with three chariots of Lord Jagannath (Krishna), Lord Balram and Shubhadra will be taken out tomorrow with religious fervor. The three chariots will be pulled by 1,200 men, and followed by 100 trucks with floats showcasing Indian culture, 16 elephants, 30 gymnastic groups, 20 musical bands and about 2,000 sadhus.
A daily summary of world news for Hindus and non-Hindus alike