Jagannath Temple to use traditional traps for rodent management

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has announced plans to use traditional methods to manage a rising population of rats and cockroaches within the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Because temple rules strictly prohibit killing any animal or insect on the premises, authorities will use traps to catch the rodents alive and release them outside the temple grounds.

Officials noted that the pest issue has resurfaced following the COVID-19 pandemic. The rodents have been causing damage by devouring flowers offered to the deities and gnawing on valuable ritual clothing. To manage cockroaches, earthen pots containing jaggery and sticky substances have been placed in the sanctum to attract them. Additionally, authorities are working to block the entry points used by these pests.

Temple administration has consulted with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) regarding these measures. Researchers noted that the temple's historical records provide specific guidelines for handling animals like rodents, bats, and monkeys, emphasizing that no living creature's life may be taken within the sacred space.