Puri, Dec 7: Physically challenged and senior citizens have demanded easy access to Puri Jagannath temple.

They have appealed to operationalize the ramps as soon as possible, which have been already constructed through the Uttar Dwara (North Gate) to facilitate the movement of disabled ones inside the temple, sitting in wheelchairs.

Sources said hundreds disable visitors come to have darshan of the Lord Jagannath and to witness the fine architect of the Jagannath temple. The number reaches thousand on special occasions on the Car Festival(Ratha Yatra), Bahuda, Navakalevara, and other significant rituals.

However, the devotees with disabilities or immobile senior citizens are exempted from viewing this celebration due to the lack of special provisions for them.

In view of easy access for the Divyangs, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration(SJTA) had constructed a special ramp for divyangs, for their easy passage in Puri Jagannath temple. It has remained non-functional from the day of commission. As a result, physically challenged devotees are being exempted from the darshan of the Trinity despite the existing ramp.

Having no ways out, hundreds of devotees who are living with disabilities are reportedly returning homes with despair, offering prayers from the Singha Dwara(main gate) of the Jagannath temple, instead of entering into the Sanctum Sanctorum of the shrine.