Puri, Oct 29: The Odisha government is stepping up efforts to introduce a systematic queue-based darshan system at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri to ensure a smoother, safer and more orderly experience for devotees.

Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan recently reviewed the progress of infrastructure work for the proposed system. The Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC) is carrying out the construction of barricades, and the minister has directed officials to complete the work within the stipulated deadline.

According to the minister, the new arrangement is being planned with a focus on devotees’ convenience, safety and smooth access to the deities. The government is making continuous efforts to ensure that pilgrims can have a hassle-free and secure darshan of Lord Jagannath.

Pilot model being developed

A high-level meeting was held to discuss ways to streamline darshan without disrupting the temple’s daily rituals or causing inconvenience to devotees. A pilot model has been prepared, and the technical team is expected to present it within the next eight to ten days.

The proposed system is expected to become operational within three to four months, according to the details shared by the minister.

Five ramps planned to regulate devotee movement

Under the proposed arrangement, five ramps will be constructed to facilitate darshan, with an estimated 50 devotees able to have darshan simultaneously. The system is designed to accommodate approximately 8,000 to 10,000 devotees per hour, according to the minister.

Devotees currently enter the temple through the Satapahacha (Seven Steps). The proposed ramps will extend from near the Garuda Stambha to the Bahara Katha area, with the aim of reducing congestion inside the temple premises.

The authorities are also preparing a plan to make effective use of the nine existing lines inside the temple after devotees enter the premises.

Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said the proposed queue-based system would help improve crowd management and ensure a more organised darshan experience while maintaining the smooth conduct of the temple’s daily rituals.