Bhubaneswar, Aug. 11 -- With Puri Srimandir reopening from Monday (August 16), the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) today issued a standard operating procedure to be followed by the devotees, staff and other officials of the temple.

The Shree Jagannath Temple has been closed since April 24, 2021 and the entry of general public barred in view of threat of the spread of COVID-19.

As per the government order by the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), SJTA has been authorised to reopen the 12th century shrine for the public in consultation with the concerned stakeholders and in compliance of COVID safety protocols and appropriate restrictions.

"A meeting was held on August 4 with Chhatisa Nijog members and all othe...