Floodwaters have once again entered the premises of the famous Maa Bhattarika Temple in Badamba following the release of water from Hirakud Dam, raising concerns over the safety of the shrine ahead of Navratri.
According to reports, 28 gates of the Hirakud Dam have been opened as water levels rise. The floodwaters have reached close to the sanctum sanctorum of the Bhattarika Temple.
With Navratri puja approaching, the rising water level has prompted the district administration to step up precautions around the temple.
Section 163 Restrictions at Two Temples
Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have been imposed at both the Bhattarika Temple and Singhanath Temple in Badamba.
The restrictions have been put in place as a precautionary measure amid rising water levels around the shrines. Devotees have been advised to stay away from restricted areas for their safety.
Idol Shifting Plan Ready
District administration officials said arrangements have been kept ready to shift the idol of Maa Bhattarika to a safer location if the water level rises by another two feet.
Despite the flood situation, temple priest Sirish Rana said the daily rituals and traditional puja of the Goddess are continuing uninterrupted.
The district administration is closely monitoring the water levels and the situation around the temples as the floodwaters continue to rise.
