Construction of chariots for the annual Car Festival of Lord Jagannath began on Friday a day after the Centre allowed it with certain conditions.
No religious congregation should take place in the Rath Khala (chariot-making yard on the Grand Road).
The chariot construction works are to be undertaken in a restricted zone of 200 feet as per the guidelines set by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
However, in view of the coronavirus threat, the temple carpenters engaged in chariot construction works would undergo Covid-19 test to avoid spread of the deadly infection at the construction site.
A blueprint has been prepared by the temple administration for smooth conduct of chariot construction, said Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Krishan Kumar after holding a meeting with the temple servitors on the day.
The Biswakarma Maharanas (carpenters) would be tested for Covid-19. They would be accommodated at two Bhakta Niwases being provided food there. From Bhakta Niwases they would be taken to the Rath Khala (chariot-making yard on the Grand Road) by a bus.
Notably, the Central Government has made it clear that a decision of holding the Rath Yatra, scheduled on June 23 this year, would be taken by the State Government keeping in mind the prevailing Covid-19 situation.