Puri: In view of the massive footfall expected during the upcoming Panchuka celebrations, devotees will be allowed to enter the Shree Jagannath Temple only through the Singhadwar (Lion’s Gate), officials said on Thursday.

The decision was taken at a coordination meeting between the civil administration and police ahead of Panchuka — the last five days of the holy month of Kartik — said Puri District Collector Dibyajyoti Parida.

This year, Panchuka will be observed from November 2 to 5, when lakhs of devotees are expected to visit the 12th-century shrine.

“Currently, devotees can enter the temple through all four gates. However, during Panchuka, entry will be allowed only through the eastern gate — the Singhadwar — while exit will be facilitated through the remaining three gates,” said

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