Puri, Dec 30: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has implemented comprehensive measures to manage the anticipated influx of devotees at the Puri Jagannath Temple on 31 December 2024 and 1 January 2025.
The 12th-century shrine is expected to witness a massive crowd, prompting specific entry and exit regulations for devotees
As per the SJTA guidelines, devotees will be allowed to enter the temple only through the Singha Dwara (Lions Gate), the main gate of the shrine. Exits will be permitted through the other three gates—Paschima Dwara (West Gate), Uttara Dwara (North Gate), and Dakshina Dwara (South Gate).
To ensure a smooth experience for visitors, DIG Central Range Charan Singh Meena and Puri SP Vinit Agrawal conducted a detailed briefing at the Reserved Police Ground.
-Focus on managing the crowd inside and outside the temple as well as on the sea beach.
-Arrange for a hassle-free and safe bathing experience at the sea for visitors.
A robust security arrangement has been established with the deployment of:
-2 Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs)
-10 Additional ASPs
-40 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs)
-70 Inspectors
-220 ASIs and ASI-ranked officials
-60 platoons of police forces
Additionally, lifeguards and firefighters will be stationed at the sea beach to ensure the safety of visitors. Senior police officers and personnel have also been deployed at various temples, shrines, and tourist locations across the district.
Around 100 youth volunteers will assist the police in managing the crowd. Their responsibilities include helping identify locals and outsiders, as well as aiding in de-crowding efforts during peak hours.
Puri SP Vinit Agrawal emphasized the importance of providing a welcoming experience for visitors. “Those who come to Puri are our guests. We will ensure they are welcomed and treated with the utmost hospitality,” he stated.
With these meticulous arrangements, the SJTA aims to ensure a safe, peaceful, and spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees visiting Puri on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
