Cuttack: President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the historic maritime fair, Baliyatra, on Nov 24 on the banks of river Mahanadi in Cuttack, said the district administration, adding a special security and traffic management plan has been chalked. Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Governor Braj Mohan Ram are also scheduled to be present on the occasion.The eight-day maritime festival, which will continue till Dec 1, will be organised across both the upper and lower Baliyatra grounds this year.The administration has completed the land allocation process for more than 500 plots, while further formalities are underway.“President Murmu has graciously consented to inaugurate the historic Baliyatra. It is a matter of great pride for Cuttack and Odisha. We are making elaborate arrangements for her visit, including special security and traffic management measures. A citywide beautification drive will also be undertaken ahead of the event. All departments are working in coordination to ensure a smooth and memorable inauguration,” said a district administration official.The district administration and Cuttack Municipal Corporation’s citywide beautification drive will focus on road repairs, lighting and removal of encroachments.A senior district administration official said greater emphasis will be laid on cleanliness, safe drinking water, additional temporary toilets, uninterrupted power supply, food safety and medical facilities on the fairgrounds. Adequate lighting will also be ensured across the grounds and surrounding areas, said the senior official.Meanwhile, the theme for this year’s ‘Cuttack in Cuttack’ initiative will be finalised based on suggestions and opinions received from the public, the administration said.Cultural programmes and competitions will be organised alongside the fair, which attracts lakhs of visitors from Odisha and neighbouring states, to showcase Cuttack’s maritime legacy, traditional art, handicrafts and rich cultural heritage.Baliyatra commemorates the glorious maritime history of ancient Kalinga, when Odia traders and sailors undertook voyages to Southeast Asian countries, including Bali, for trade and cultural exchanges. The festival coincides with the Kartika Purnima tradition of Boita Bandana, when people float miniature boats to pay tribute to the ancient mariners.