Bhubaneswar: To elevate Puri’s status as a major pilgrim destination, Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Sunday announced a complete ban on sale of liquor within a 2-km radius of Shree Jagannath Temple.
“There will be no liquor shops or bars within this area,” he told reporters.
The Minister further stated that sale of all non-vegetarian food items will also be prohibited along the Bada Danda, the main road leading to the 12th-century shrine. “The new excise policy will ensure strict enforcement of these restrictions,” he said.
Additionally, buildings along the ‘Bada Danda’ will be redesigned with a common structure pattern resembling that of a pilgrim city. “The buildings will be developed gradually since these also include some private properties. A detailed plan outlining uniform height and front elevation for these buildings will be released soon,” he said.
These steps are part of the state government’s efforts to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrim for Rath Yatra, slated for June 27 this year.
