Bhubaneswar: To prevent a stampede-like situation amid massive influx of devotees due to the ongoing Kartika month in Odisha’s Puri, the authorities of Shree Jagannath Temple allow entry of devotees only through the Singhadwara (Lions’ Gate) during ‘Panchuka’ from November 2 to 5.

At present, the devotees enter the temple through all four gates of the shrine. ADVERTISEMENT

The 12th-century temple has seen a threefold increase in devotees numbers since the start of this holy month and remains crowded even at midnight. Though there was a slight slump for two days due to Cyclone Montha, it surged again on Tuesday.

Stating that the measure aims to avert any stampede risks, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida said that the devotees can step out of the temple, using the other three gates.

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