Massive footfall at Jagannath temple poses challenge for administration

WITH 2024 drawing to a close and a new year knocking at the doors, the Puri administration is grappling with huge footfall of devotees at the Shree Jagannath temple.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Puri

Though devotees are allowed to enter the temple in a queue, it breaks at Bhitarkath as there is barely any order and pilgrims jostle to get ahead of each other to have a glimpse of the deities. As a result, it is becoming increasingly difficult for the elderly and children amidst the rush. On Monday, at least five devotees including three girl students from Bhadrak were taken to hospital after they fell unconscious. Later, they were discharged after administration of first aid.

From Tuesday, devotees will be allowed entry in a queue between the barricades through Singhadwar, the main gate of the temple, while exiting through the other three gates.