Puri: The western gate of Jagannath temple, here, was opened for entry of the devotees from Friday.
As per the decision of Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), devotees can go inside the temple through Singhadwar (Lions Gate) and western gate, while northern and southern gates will be used for coming out.
Speaking to the media persons, here on Friday, Puri deputy collector Bhabataran Sahu said the devotees going through western gate can make the exit through southern gate, while those entering through Singhadwar can come out through southern gate.
The SJTA took the decision following the demand of devotees and servitors of the temple in this regard. So far, the devotees from outside were allowed to enter the temple only through Singhadwar, while the people of Puri town were permitted to use western gate as part of COVID restrictions.
They had to wait for long hours in queue under scorching heat for the entry. It was not only posing health problem for them but also led to unruly situation. A stampede like situation took place at Singhadwar recently.
In order to further facilitate the entry of devotees, who are expected to turn up in large number on the occasion of Chandan Yatra of the deities on Akshay Tritya, and construction of chariots for Rath Yatra, the SJTA has decided to remove the barricades on Badadanda (Grand Road).
