Puri, July 14 -- Ahead of the grand Jagannath Rath Yatra scheduled to begin on July 16, a multi-agency mock drill was conducted in Puri on Tuesday involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Fire Service, Scouts and Guides and other agencies to strengthen emergency response, crowd management and disaster preparedness arrangements for the annual festival, which is expected to witness the participation of lakhs of devotees.

Speaking to ANI, Scout and Guide volunteer Raj Pattnaik said the administration and volunteers have completed preparations to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims during the Rath Yatra.

"I am involved in serving Lord Jagannath during the Rath Yatra... the turnout is expected to be huge this ti...