Bhubaneswar, Nov. 29 -- The decision to reopen the Gundicha Temple for the general public from December 1 has been temporarily put on hold. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has deferred the proposal after reviewing urgent reports submitted by the Additional Chief Engineer and the Senior Supervisor, keeping in view the safety of devotees.

As per the recommendations of the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee, a detailed inspection of Gundicha Temple was conducted a few days ago. Following the inspection, SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee had earlier announced that the temple would be thrown open to devotees from December 1.

However, the Additional Chief Engineer has reported that more time is required for the ...