Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to enhance the pilgrimage experience, the Odisha government is planning to introduce a slot booking system for darshan at the revered Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The initiative aims to streamline the flow of devotees and ensure a more organised and hassle-free visit to the temple.
Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on April 15 informed that the new system will be rolled out shortly. He clarified that the proposed slot booking system will operate alongside the existing queue-based ‘Dhadi darshan’, giving devotees the flexibility to choose their preferred mode of दर्शन.
“Plans are being made to ensure that both line darshan and slot booking darshan continue simultaneously,” the minister said. He emphasised that the move is intended to reduce inconvenience and improve crowd management within the temple premises.
As per the proposal, devotees opting for slot booking will be directed to a designated holding area before being allowed to proceed for darshan of Bhagwan Jagannath, Bhagwan Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. This arrangement is expected to regulate the number of visitors entering the temple at a given time, particularly during peak hours and festive occasions.
In addition to the new system, the government is also focusing on improving infrastructure within the temple complex. The Nata Mandap will be equipped with air-conditioning to provide better comfort for waiting devotees. The tender process for this development has already begun.
Harichandan further stated that the slot booking system will initially be implemented on a trial basis. “At first, the slot booking darshan system will be introduced experimentally,” he said, adding that necessary refinements will be made based on feedback and operational requirements.
