Puri, Jan 3: The repair work on the Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri, is set to resume today after a brief suspension. In anticipation of increased pilgrim footfall during the New Year, the temple administration had temporarily halted the repairs from 24th December 2024 to 2nd January 2025.
With the crowd subsiding, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will continue the restoration work under the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the government.
Additionally, plans are underway to facilitate smoother crowd management. The administration aims to introduce a new ramp and enhanced viewing arrangements at the Natamandap by 20th or 22nd January.
However, officials expressed concerns that these new arrangements might slightly delay the completion of the Ratna Bhandar restoration, which could further tighten the scheduled timeline. In light of this, the administration is strategising to ensure the ongoing repairs and temple policies proceed seamlessly.
As per the guidelines, the ASI will conduct the repair work daily from 12:30 pm, after the second offering, until 5:30 pm. The ASI has committed to completing the restoration and conservation of the Ratna Bhandar within the next three months.
