Puri, Dec 17: With Christmas and New Year approaching, the Puri district police have begun extensive preparations to manage the expected surge of devotees visiting the Shree Jagannath Temple.

Puri SP Prateek Singh outlined the crowd‑management strategy, emphasising strict entry and exit protocols to ensure smooth movement and safety.

According to SP Singh, devotees will be allowed to enter only through the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate), while the other three gates will be used exclusively for exit. To handle the festive rush, 60 platoons of police force will be deployed, along with enhanced traffic regulation and enforcement measures. The holding areas around the temple will be expanded to accommodate the anticipated crowd.

Also read: Photo from inside Puri Jagannath Temple Goes Viral

Police estimate that the influx of devotees will begin increasing from December 25, with the peak rush expected on January 1. Prior to the festival season, the Director General of Police reviewed the arrangements, and a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for darshan is currently being finalised.

Barricading has already been extended up to Market Square to streamline the movement of devotees. The SP added that the barricades will be further extended if required. Additionally, six Quick Response Teams, along with fire and rescue units, will remain on standby to address emergencies.

Meanwhile, responding to the recent controversy surrounding a viral photograph of Lord Jagannath on the Ratna Singhasan inside the temple, the SP confirmed that Singhadwara Police Station has registered a case suo motu.

The case has been filed under Case No. 233, invoking Section 30(A)4C of the Shree Jagannath Temple Act. An investigation is underway to identify how the photograph was taken and circulated, as photography inside the temple is strictly prohibited.

The police have assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible for violating temple security norms.