Puri: Amid uncertainty looming large over conducting much-awaited Ratha Yatra of Lord Jagannath this year due to rapid spread of Coronavirus infections, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has started preparation for the 9-day-long sojourn of deities in Puri.
Though the state authorities are yet to decide on holding the annual event, a recent move by the temple administration to install CCTV cameras on premises of Srimandir and Gundicha Temple indicates that Ratha Jatra may be held on the scheduled date.
In a quotation call notice, the SJTA has invited tender for temporary installation of CCTV cameras at different places of Srimandir and Gundicha Temple for ensuing car festival (Ratha Yatra) and return car festival (Bahuda Yatra) 2020. The last date for application has been fixed for June 18.
Meanwhile, the construction work of chariots is underway in the pilgrim town by maintaining social distancing norms set up by the authorities.
The much-awaited Ratha Yatra of Lord Jagannath is scheduled on June 23 this year. As the temple administration conducted Snana Jatra of Lord Jagannath and His divine siblings on Jyestha Purnima recently with limited number of servitors sans devotees this year due to COVID pandemic, there are speculations that the annual Ratha Jatra of Lord Jagannath will be held in similar manner.
