BERHAMPUR: President Droupadi Murmu undertook a historic 170-km train journey from Bhubaneswar to Berhampur on Tuesday, drawing enthusiastic crowds and unprecedented security arrangements during the second day of her three-day visit to Odisha.
Accompanied by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Murmu travelled aboard the specially-designated ‘President Special’ train. The ultra-luxury rail car, featuring air-conditioned bedrooms, a living-cum-dining area and a fully equipped kitchen, covered the distance in a little over two hours, reaching Berhampur at around 11.10 am. The train journey was preferred in view of the India Meteorological Department’s forecast of rain.
Security arrangements were elaborate throughout the journey. The presidential saloon was escorted by trains ahead and behind it, while no other train was allowed to operate on the route. Bomb disposal squads, sniffer dogs, baggage scanners and personnel from the GRP, RPF and central security agencies were deployed at Bhubaneswar and Berhampur railway stations. People carrying the Tricolour also gathered at various railway stations to welcome the President.
Ganjam collector V Keerthi Vasan said all venues connected with the President’s visit were declared no-flying zones. Murmu’s visit also transformed Berhampur’s usually bustling streets. While traffic restrictions during VIP visits are common in the Silk City, Tuesday’s arrangements were exceptional. The President briefly stepped out of her vehicle near Mahamayee Women’s College in Berhampur and greeted students, distributing chocolates to them.
Murmu travelled around 55 km by road from Berhampur to Taptapani, which is known for its natural sulphur hot springs and Maa Kandhuni Devi temple. After reaching Taptapani, she spent some time at the state-run Panthanivas. She later offered prayers at Maa Kandhuni Devi temple and the nearby Nilakantheshwar Shiva temple.
“It is an extraordinary privilege for us to welcome the President,” said Redika Jani, secretary of the Taptapani Temple Development Committee.
For security reasons, devotees were temporarily barred from entering the shrine during the visit. However, hundreds of tribal residents gathered outside to welcome the President. Murmu interacted with them and distributed chocolates to children, drawing smiles and applause from the crowd.
After completing her temple visit, the President returned to the Army Air Defence College at Golabandh on the outskirts of Berhampur, where she stayed for the night before continuing her official engagements.