In a joint operation, the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Puri district administration on Saturday began the process of demolition of the encroachments within 10 feet of the Singhadwar (the main entrance or lion’s Gate) of the Shree Jagannath Temple here.
The demolition drive has been undertaken in pursuance of the directive of the Odisha High Court for removal of all encroachments within 10 feet of the temple in view of both security and conservation concerns of the shrine, which attracts thousands of devotees every day.
No resistance was reported during the initial drive in form of measurement of the encroached areas which began with the century-old building of the Pratihari Nijog near the lion’s Gate.
The office-bearers of the Nijog held discussions with the temple administration to provide them with an alternative site so that they could easily perform the daily rituals associated with lord Jagannath, sources said.