Puri, April 16(BNP): In a significant move to enhance devotee convenience and streamline crowd management, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Wednesday announced that a queue and slot booking system will soon be introduced at the Srimandir (Jagannath Temple) in Puri.
Under the proposed system, devotees will be able to book darshan slots as per their preferred time, allowing them to visit Lord Jagannath without enduring long queues. A dedicated holding area will be created within the temple premises for those who opt for slot-based entry.
The Minister informed that the system will initially be implemented on a trial basis, following which it will be placed before the temple’s managing committee for final approval.
Importantly, both traditional queue-based darshan and slot booking will function simultaneously, ensuring flexibility and convenience for all categories of visitors.
As part of the infrastructure upgrade, the temple administration is also preparing a ramp to facilitate smoother movement of devotees. Additionally, plans are underway to install air-conditioning in the Natamandap and further strengthen crowd management mechanisms inside the temple.
Officials indicated that once the new system becomes fully operational, around 4,500 to 5,000 devotees will be able to have darshan at a time, significantly improving the overall experience.
The initiative is expected to bring major relief to lakhs of devotees visiting the shrine throughout the year, especially during peak festive seasons.
