Puri (SunstarTV Bureau): Taking the rise in number of deadly virus cases, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) on Friday issued a revised standard operating procedure (SOP) of weekend shut down for Puri Shrimandir which will to be effect from April 24, informed sources.
Except Saturdays and Sundays devotees are allowed to pay inside of temple amid Covid-19 protocols.
A discussion in this regard was taken in a virtual meeting of the Chhatisa Nijog today in presence of SJTA Chief Administrator Krishan Kumar, District Collector Samarth Verma, SP Kanwar Vishal Singh and representatives of servitors.
Meanwhile, for safety measure devotees will be allowed darshan from Bahar Katha, said a Servitor of the temple.
Discussion was also held on the arrangements of kiosks for conducting Covid tests of pilgrims and mandatory production of Covid-19 negative report for entry to the shrine.
Meanwhile, from outside Odisha people will have to bring their RT-PCR negative report for entry into the sacred shrine. However, restrictions for locals have not been taken yet.
The Chhatisa Nijog is also taking consultation from stakeholders and representative of various organizations on closing the temple for devotees, if situation arises.
