Athagarh, Aug. 3 (UDN): The Cuttack district administration has temporarily barred devotees from entering the revered Dhabaleswar Temple after the water level of the Mahanadi River rose sharply amid the ongoing flood situation, disrupting one of the most significant religious observances during the holy month of Sawan.

The Shiva shrine, located on an island in the Mahanadi near Athagarh, attracts thousands of devotees and Kanwariyas every year, especially on Mondays of Shravan, when pilgrims perform the sacred Jalabhishek by offering holy water to Lord Shiva. However, the flood-induced restrictions have left devotees and temple priests uncertain about how the rituals will be conducted this year.

With the river flowing above normal levels and strong currents posing a safety risk, the district administration has suspended public entry to the temple until further orders. Officials said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incidents and protect the lives of pilgrims.

The restrictions have disappointed hundreds of Kanwariyas, many of whom had already begun their annual pilgrimage to the temple. Devotees said they were unsure whether they would be allowed to offer water to the deity or if any alternative arrangements would be made for the ritual.

Temple priests also expressed concern over the disruption of traditional Sawan worship, saying the temple witnesses one of its largest gatherings during the sacred month. They are awaiting further instructions from the administration regarding the conduct of daily rituals and public participation.

Meanwhile, district authorities have urged devotees to cooperate with the restrictions and avoid travelling to the temple until the flood situation improves. Officials said the water level of the Mahanadi is being monitored continuously and the ban on entry will be reviewed once conditions become safe.

The administration has appealed to the public to prioritise safety over pilgrimage, assuring devotees that further decisions regarding temple access will be taken based on the prevailing flood conditions.