The Puri police have announced the introduction of ‘Pink Help Desks’ at the Jagannath Temple to enhance safety measures for women devotees.
The initiative, set to commence on Sunday, will be managed by a team of six specially trained female constables, providing immediate assistance, addressing grievances, and ensuring a more secure environment for female visitors.
Superintendent of Police Vinit Agrawal emphasised the importance of the initiative, stating that while incidents of harassment are rare, the significant influx of pilgrims, particularly women, necessitates proactive steps to maintain a safe and seamless experience.
Additionally, temple authorities are contemplating the establishment of an Annakhetra (community kitchen) outside the temple’s northern gate. Proposed by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, this initiative aims to alleviate congestion in the Anand Bazaar area, where the distribution of Mahaprasad often leads to overcrowding.
Meanwhile, restoration work at the temple’s Ratna Bhandar (treasure vault) is ongoing, with conservation efforts scheduled to continue until June 27. Officials confirmed that nearly 193 hours of repairs have strengthened the inner chamber’s structure, with further reinforcements planned for the outer chamber later this year.
These measures collectively reflect the temple administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure, ensuring devotees’ safety, and preserving the historical and cultural integrity of the revered site.
