Puri: The Jagannath temple here will remain closed for darshan on December 31 and January 1, informed Krishan Kumar, Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration.
The decision has been in view of COVID-19 as the temple witnesses heavy rush during this time of the year.
Informing media persons about the decision taken at the Chhattisa Nijog meeting on Friday, the SJTA chief said “The decision to keep the temple closed for devotees on the two days has been taken apprehending heavy rush of devotees on New Year. Similar restrictions will be imposed on December 31 and January 2, which happens to be a Sunday.”
As the second day of 2022 is a Sunday, the temple administration expects heavy footfall because of which the temple will be closed for them.
It may be mentioned that the deities are out of bounds for devotees on Sundays as the temple is sanitised on these days, he added.
Last year the temple was closed in view of COVID pandemic.
