Bowing to the demands from all quarters, the district administration opened the western gate (Paschima Dwara) of Lord Jagannath temple in Puri on Monday morning.
Speaking on the decision, Puri Sub Collector informed that residents of Puri will use the western gate to enter the shrine.
It is worth mentioning that prior to the outbreak of Covid-19, devotees were allowed to enter the 12th century shrine from all four gates. During the pandemic, the three doors of the temple were shut for the devotees. But even long after the pandemic, devotees were allowed to the shrine through the Lion’s Gate only, resulting in a huge rush.
There had been a growing demand for opening the three gates, at least the western gate. Noted sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik, who is also a member of the temple managing committee, recently raised the demand for the opening of the western gate for local people.
Sources said the district administration has not taken any decision to open the remaining two gates, citing the ongoing Srimandir Heritage Corridor Project construction work. It is learnt that a decision will be taken in this regard soon.