Bhubaneswar: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has firmly stated that there will be no reduction in the recently introduced ₹500 parking fee at the temple’s guest houses in Puri, Odisha. This decision has sparked discussion among local political parties, tourism stakeholders, and pilgrims, with some expressing concerns that the fee may negatively impact tourist inflow to the pilgrimage city. However, the SJTA has defended the measure, citing the need for better organisation, management of parking spaces, and overall efficiency in accommodating visitors.

The issue of parking at Puri’s guest houses, known as Bhakta Nivases, has historically been a point of contention due to the high volume of visitors, especially during festivals, peak tourist seasons, and religious observances. The recent implementation of the ₹500 fee, inclusive of 18 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST), applies to all four-wheelers parked at SJTA-operated guest houses for a period of 24 hours. These facilities include Neeladri Bhakta Nivas, Nilachala Bhakta & Yatri Nivas, Shree Gundicha Bhakta Nivas, and Shree Purushottam Bhakta Nivas, all of which are located along the Grand Road and in prime areas near the Jagannath Temple.

The fee has been implemented as a part of SJTA’s broader initiative to streamline operations within its guest house facilities, improve space management, and ensure orderly parking arrangements for devotees and tourists. According to Arabinda Padhee, chief administrator of SJTA, the fee has been carefully calibrated, taking into account the volume of vehicles and the ability of visitors to pay. Padhee stated that, on average, only ten vehicles are parked daily at these guest houses. “We are aware of the opposition following the introduction of the ₹500 parking fee at Bhakta Nivases. A few people come with their four-wheelers. They can easily afford the ₹500 parking fee,” Padhee said, underscoring that the charge is nominal for visitors who choose to stay at these facilities.

The introduction of the parking fee has elicited criticism from political quarters, particularly the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which has demanded a rollback of the fee. The BJD argues that the cost may act as a deterrent for devotees visiting the temple and could potentially affect the tourism economy of Puri. Critics contend that the fee might disproportionately impact pilgrims who rely on personal vehicles for transportation and who might otherwise choose to stay at these affordable temple guest houses. Despite these objections, SJTA officials have made it clear that there are no plans to reduce or eliminate the fee.

Padhee highlighted that the SJTA’s primary concern is not revenue generation but rather the effective management of space and facilitation of a smooth experience for visitors. By introducing the fee, the administration aims to prevent overcrowding, ensure that parking facilities are used efficiently, and maintain a sense of order around the guest houses. He further emphasized that pilgrims who prefer not to pay the fee at the Bhakta Nivases can park their vehicles at alternative locations. “The cost of the Jagannath Ballav parking space is ₹250. Anyone can go and keep their vehicles there. We have no objection,” Padhee said, noting that the city offers several options for parking beyond the SJTA-managed premises.

The administration also clarified that room tariffs at the Bhakta Nivases have been kept lower than those of hotels, providing budget-friendly accommodation options for devotees. Padhee explained that increasing the room charges would have a direct impact on visitors, many of whom are coming from modest backgrounds. “If the room tariff is increased, it will affect devotees, and that is why there is no proposal to raise the accommodation charges,” he added. By maintaining affordable lodging while implementing a parking fee, the SJTA intends to strike a balance between convenience for visitors and sustainable management of the facilities.

The ₹500 parking fee is intended to cover a 24-hour period, providing guests with the convenience of leaving their vehicles parked while they participate in temple rituals, attend religious programs, or explore the pilgrimage city. This approach also allows the SJTA to monitor the use of parking spaces, reduce instances of unauthorized or haphazard parking, and improve the overall experience for visitors, particularly during peak times. In addition, by introducing a structured fee, the administration can maintain proper maintenance and security at the parking facilities, ensuring a safe environment for vehicles and their owners.

Officials have clarified that the SJTA operates multiple guest houses along the Grand Road and near the Jagannath Temple, which are strategically located to provide easy access to temple premises. These guest houses serve thousands of devotees each year and have become an integral part of the religious and cultural landscape of Puri. The Bhakta Nivases are preferred by pilgrims seeking affordable accommodation within walking distance of the temple, making them an essential component of the city’s tourism infrastructure.

The SJTA’s approach reflects a broader effort to professionalize and modernize temple administration, including infrastructure improvements, better facilities for devotees, and enhanced management practices. By introducing measures such as the parking fee, the administration seeks to reduce congestion, prevent misuse of limited space, and ensure that visitors have a positive experience while staying at the temple guest houses. The administration believes that these steps are necessary to maintain order and efficiency in one of India’s most visited pilgrimage cities.

In response to concerns raised by political parties and visitors, SJTA officials emphasized that the fee is modest relative to the convenience and security offered. By providing a clearly defined and managed parking system, the administration aims to create a structured environment that benefits all stakeholders. Visitors who may find the ₹500 fee prohibitive can explore alternative parking options within Puri, which have lower charges, ensuring flexibility for travelers with different budgets.

Tourism analysts have noted that Puri attracts millions of devotees and tourists annually, particularly during festivals such as Ratha Yatra, attracting visitors from across India and abroad. Proper management of guest house facilities, including parking, is critical during such times to prevent chaos and ensure that the city functions smoothly. Experts argue that while the fee may initially be unpopular with some, structured measures like these are essential to sustain the long-term viability and convenience of the facilities.

Padhee reiterated that the primary objective is not revenue generation, but rather enhanced service delivery and orderly management of parking resources. By monitoring vehicle flow and providing a secure and organized parking space, the SJTA aims to reduce the administrative burden on its staff while enhancing the visitor experience. The introduction of the parking fee also allows the administration to cover operational costs associated with maintaining the parking infrastructure, including staffing, security, and upkeep.

The SJTA has also encouraged visitors to make reservations in advance at the Bhakta Nivases, allowing them to secure parking and accommodation in a coordinated manner. With proper planning, pilgrims can enjoy a seamless visit to the temple, avoiding last-minute inconveniences related to parking and lodging.

In conclusion, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has defended its decision to impose a ₹500 parking fee at its guest houses, asserting that it is a necessary step for better management, security, and convenience for visitors. While political opposition has called for a rollback, the administration has indicated that there is no plan to reduce the fee, highlighting alternative parking arrangements and maintaining affordable room tariffs. By balancing visitor convenience with structured management practices, the SJTA aims to ensure a safe, organized, and positive experience for pilgrims visiting Puri, while supporting the efficient operation of its guest houses and associated facilities.

The decision reflects a modern approach to temple administration, focusing on sustainability, visitor satisfaction, and effective use of limited resources, while maintaining the accessibility and affordability of the Bhakta Nivases for devotees from across India.

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