Jagannath Temple Closing From January 10

(The Quiver): The Shree Jagannath Temple will remain close for devotees from January 10 till January 31 in view of the rising COVID-19 cases in the state. Puri Collector Samarth Verma announced this to stop the infection spreads among large mass of devotees. The decision is forcibly taken after detection of several COVID-19 cases inside the temple. Several employees of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) and servitors have tested positive for COVID-19, the Collector had earlier said.

Puri district today reported 54 COVID-19 positive cases while the state reported as many as 2703 fresh infections. A decision on this closure was taken at a meeting between Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) and Chhatisa Nijoga, this evening.

This closer will not disrupt the daily rituals of the deities. The rituals will be continuing as they are done on normal days. COVID-related safety measures for servitors such as COVID Care Centre, ambulance, Rapid Response Team and medical check-ups were also discussed at the meeting, the official said.

If the COVID situation prevails after January 31, appropriate decision regarding the closure of the temple will be taken, as said by the official.