Religious institutions in Bhubaneswar to reopen soon

Bhubaneswar: As the State Government begun unlock process from August 1, the religious institutions in Bhubaneswar city are likely to reopen for devotees soon.

This was revealed at a virtual meeting chaired by Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Sanjay Singh today on reopening of religious institutions under its jurisdiction.

The members of various religious institutions including the Lingaraj Temple gave a proposal to the BMC Commissioner for reopening of temples, mosques and other places of worship from August 23.

As per the COVID-19 guidelines issued for the month of August, the BMC Commissioner will take a final call for reopening of the religious institutions in Bhubaneswar.

The BMC will allow devotees for entry into religious institutions after reviewing the COVID situation in the city.

“An internal meeting on reopening of religious institutions will be held and emphasis will be laid on two key points. The final decision will be taken based on the present COVID situation and opinions of members as well,” Singh told reporters.

Worth mentioning, the temples and other religious institutions are shut in Bhubaneswar since May 5 due to COVID-19 upsurge in second wave of the pandemic.

Recently, the religious institutions in Cuttack and other districts including Jagatsinghpur have reopened for devotees in the unlock process.