Bhubaneswar : A lightning strike during heavy rainfall on Wednesday caused significant damage at the historic Lingaraj Temple. The temple’s flag was burnt, and several CCTV cameras and electrical fixtures inside the sanctum sanctorum were reported to have been damaged.
According to temple officials, the lightning struck amid intense rain and thunder that disrupted normal life in parts of Bhubaneswar, causing waterlogging and traffic jams. The temple, which houses 35 CCTV cameras, suffered damage to an unspecified number of these cameras, with repairs currently underway.
In addition to the burnt flag, bulbs inside the temple’s Garbhagriha and other areas also caught fire and were destroyed. Minor structural damage was also reported at several locations within the temple complex.
The temple administration has assured that all necessary repairs will be carried out promptly. They also confirmed that steps will be taken to enhance lightning protection measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
No injuries have been reported in connection with the incident. The temple remains open to devotees.
