Bhubaneswar: To prevent a stampede-like situation amid massive influx of devotees due to the ongoing Kartika month in Odisha’s Puri, the authorities of Shree Jagannath Temple allow entry of devotees only through the Singhadwara (Lions’ Gate) during ‘Panchuka’ from November 2 to 5.
At present, the devotees enter the temple through all four gates of the shrine.
The 12th-century temple has seen a threefold increase in devotees numbers since the start of this holy month and remains crowded even at midnight. Though there was a slight slump for two days due to Cyclone Montha, it surged again on Tuesday.
Stating that the measure aims to avert any stampede risks, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida said that the devotees can step out of the temple, using the other three gates.
Similar restrictions were in place during December 31 and January 1, when more than 3 lakh tourists were expected to visit Puri for the New Year celebrations.
However, temple servitors are exempt from these restrictions. The temple administration has urged all to adhere to these rules so that darshan becomes smooth and organised.
“There is a dedicated corridor for Habisyali, particularly elderly devotees observing Kartika, to enter the temple daily. Help desks have also been established at all four gates,” Parida said.
During the holy month of Kartika, a large number of devotees observe “Habisa Brata” during which they visit the temple and take food only once in the afternoon.
Additionally, barricades along Badadanda have been extended up to Market Chhak to allow entry of the large crowd into the shrine in a coordinated fashion and without any hassles. “The seven-lane queue system terminates at the Lions’ Gate. Volunteers and Jagannath Temple Police (JTP) will operate in shifts to support the elderly, differently-abled, and those with health concerns in the queues. The local administration will also ensure drinking water stations are placed strategically for the pilgrims,” he added.