Suryakant Jena

Puri: The temple of Lord Jagannath in the pilgrim city of Puri will remain closed for devotees from tomorrow till March 31 in the wake of Coronavirus outbreak which has so far claimed more than 8000 lives across the globe.

Announcing the significant development, chief administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, Krishan Kumar said that after assessment of the situation following the implementation of the Odisha COVID-19 Regulations, it has been observed that suspending public darshan at the temple is necessary.

"The enforcement will remain in place till March 31 and thereafter any decision will be taken after further assessment of the situation," said Kumar.

"Even though general darshan will be suspended, the servitors will be allowed entry into the temple to perform all rituals of the Holy Trinity with necessary precautionary measures from frequent washing of hands to check-ups in case of any health issues. I urge that people should abide by all the directions of the government because they are meant for the wellbeing of the public," the temple chief administrator added.

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