Puri: The repair of Srimandir Ratna Bhandar is expected to be completed by Akshaya Tritiya this year. It was informed by the chief administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee after chairing a high-level meeting today.
The meeting discussed preparations for the upcoming Rath Yatra, ensuring everything is in place for the smooth conduct of the festival.
Padhee informed that the repair of the Ratna Bhandar is in progress. Five rusty iron beams between the outer and inner Ratna Bhandar were replaced with stainless steel beams. The stones are being replaced, and chemical washing is underway. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will undertake long-term repairs to the Lord’s treasury, with floor repairs to follow, expected to be completed by Akshaya Tritiya.
Discussion was also held about drone flying and mobile phone usage within the temple premises. Padhee said that a committee has been formed under the chairmanship of the District Magistrate to tackle this issue with punishment to be meted out as per the Sri Jagannath Temple Act. Padhee said that stricter law is are required to address such illegal act.
Other key decisions include the introduction of a new YouTube channel of the Holy Trinity on Pana Sankranti or Akshaya Tritiya, introduction of the Odia New Year calendar on Pana Sankranti and finalization of the budget for the financial year 2025-26.
Additionally, Amruta Anna Kotha Bhog will be used organically in the Kotha Bhog, he pointed out. An additional information centre will be set up in front of the Gundicha temple featuring LED displays.
A new uniform policy has been passed by the management committee, pending state government approval, and experts have discussed implementing an air-conditioned system at the Nata Mandap.
