Puri Srimandir to remain shut for devotees on these 2 days every week

Puri: A day after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) directed for closure of all centrally-protected monuments for visitors keeping in view the COVID resurgence, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) today imposed restriction on entry of devotees inside the shrine for two days a week.

The temple will remain shut for devotees on every Saturday and Sunday with effect from April 24.

A decision to this effects was taken at Chhatisa Nijog meeting held virtually today under the chairmanship of SJTA Chief Krishan Kumar. The district Collector, SP and other SJTA officials attended the meeting, which discussed the SOP for general darshan on the remaining five days.   

It is pertinent to mention here that several servitors, SJTA officials, temple police and  others associated with the centuries-old shrine have contracted the virus in the last couple of days.

The ASI, in its yesterday’s order,  said due to prevailing COVID-19 situation, the centrally-protected monuments, sites and museums will remain closed with immediate effect. The order will remain in force till May 15, 2021 or until further orders.

A total of 46 centrally-protected monuments and sites in Odisha, including Puri Jagannath temple, Konark Sun Temple and Lingaraj temple come under the ASI.