Bhubaneswar, 03 July (H.S.): The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has assured that all repair, restoration, and beautification works at the Gundicha Temple in Puri will be completed well before the annual Rath Yatra, ensuring the smooth conduct of rituals and the seamless movement of devotees during the festival.

SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee said renovation work is progressing on a priority basis, with key sections of the temple complex undergoing restoration. Repairs have already been completed at the northern entrance, while damaged Khondalite stone slabs in the temple courtyard have been replaced. Stone restoration has also been carried out at multiple locations between the Adapa Mandap and Nakachana Dwar to facilitate the ceremonial Pahandi procession without any obstruction.

Padhee said the SJTA has held detailed discussions with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) regarding the next phase of conservation work. Restoration of the temple's sanctum sanctorum (Garbha Gruha), Jagamohan, and Natamandap is scheduled to commence on the 18th of this month during the period when Lord Jagannath and His sibling deities remain at the Gundicha Temple for the Rath Yatra.

He said the conservation plan has been finalised in consultation with the SJTA's technical advisory committee, and the proposals have already been communicated to the Director General of the ASI both in writing and through direct discussions. The technical committee will closely monitor the restoration process to ensure that all work is carried out scientifically and completed within the limited time available during the annual festival.

The SJTA Chief further said the restoration work will be undertaken in close coordination with the temple servitors (Sevayats) to ensure that the temple's religious traditions remain unaffected while preserving its heritage value.

Meanwhile, the administration has also decided to install a ramp system at the Natamandap of the Shree Jagannath Temple to improve accessibility for devotees. The responsibility for designing and executing the project has been entrusted to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar.

Padhee added that while temporary arrangements are made every year during the Rath Yatra, the proposed upgrades at the Gundicha Temple, regarded as the Janma Bedi (birthplace) of Lord Jagannath, are being undertaken well in advance to enhance pilgrim convenience, strengthen the temple's infrastructure, and preserve its historic and architectural significance.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda