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The silver plating of the 'Gumuta' at Puri Srimandir is currently underway as part of the beautification of the doors of the 12th century shrine. The 'Manibandha' near Patitapabana is also being meticulously coated with silver, following a decision by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
This stunning silver finish will be applied directly above the 'Jamashila', further enhancing the temple’s grandeur and allure.
Meanwhile, extensive preparations are also underway at the revered Jagannath Temple in anticipation of a heavy influx of devotees for the New Year celebrations. SJTA officials are committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless experience for the thousands expected to visit the holy site.
Also Read: New Year 2025: Preparations underway in Puri Srimandir to streamline crowd management
Reports indicate that unauthorized obstructions have been cleared from the temple grounds, except for essential almirahs in the Natmandir precinct. The town of Puri is bracing for the festivities, implementing heightened security and logistical arrangements to ensure the safety of both devotees and tourists alike.
To maintain law and order during this busy time, the coastal town will be under CCTV surveillance, with approximately 60 platoons of police deployed throughout the area. Anticipating a surge in crowd numbers from December 31st to New Year’s Day, local police have intensified traffic regulations and reinforced checks at key entry points.
Despite these extensive preparations for a smooth Darshan of the Sibling Deities, some devotees have expressed concerns about the current queue management. One devotee voiced frustration, stating, “The queue leading to the temple is not managed properly. There is no separate line for the elderly, making it difficult to stand for hours on end. Unlike the Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh, there is also no management for providing free drinking water.”
Another devotee raised a concern regarding the lack of accommodations for patients, saying, “There are no separate arrangements for those with medical needs. The queue is too long, and if a diabetic patient leaves to use the restroom, they must return to the very end of the line. This arrangement is highly uncomfortable.”
