Is Puri temple safe & secure: measures seem far from satisfactory

Puri: Despite being regarded as one of the sensitive and vital destinations that could be on ‘terrorists’ radar, the security measures at Puri Jagannath temple leave much to be desired.

A reality check conducted by OTV found that though three metal detectors have been installed at the entry points, they are not functioning as power supply was disconnected due to rains.

“Shed is being created and power supply will be restored to the metal detectors,” said Puri Additional SP, Banabihari Sahu.

Though a luggage scanner was also installed in 2014 to ensure a through check of the articles being carried into the temple premises via southern gate, the scanner room was found to be locked. It is also alleged that no security personnel man the watch towers installed around the 12^th century shrine.

Also Read:NSG team arrives in Puri for security review

Recently, a team of the National Security Guard (NSG) had reviewed the security arrangements at Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri for chalking out an action plan against any possible terror threat.

The NSG team had inspected prominent places in and around the shrine and examined the functioning of CCTVs, metal detectors and the entry and exit gates.

During their two-hour visit, the team members had also reviewed arrangements for crowd control and ‘darshan’ of the deities.

DGP RP Sharma who had visited the Puri temple after assuming charge stated that steps would certainly be taken to improve the security measures at Puri temple.

“Already a security system is in place and only after a detailed review we can find what more can be done for the safety of the monument and visitors," said Sharma.