The Gomati district administration has imposed a ban on the use of candles within the premises of the revered Tripurasundari Temple in Udaipur, citing serious fire safety risks. The directive comes amid growing concerns over the potential hazards posed by open flames in crowded religious spaces.
According to an official notification, devotees will no longer be permitted to light candles inside the temple complex. However, the use of agarbattis (incense sticks) will continue as per existing practices, subject to general safety precautions.
The temple, a major pilgrimage site, witnesses a large influx of devotees daily, many of whom traditionally light candles and agarbattis at designated spots as part of their religious offerings. Authorities noted that a tree located adjacent to the candle-lighting area significantly increases the risk of accidental fires.
“The presence of open flames in close proximity to the tree and other combustible materials creates a real possibility of fire, which could endanger public safety, disrupt temple activities, and damage the structure and surrounding areas,” the administration stated in its memo.
To mitigate these risks, the administration has issued a set of immediate guidelines. Devotees will not be allowed to carry agarbatti packets into the temple premises; instead, only loose incense sticks will be permitted for offerings.
As an alternative to candles, devotees have been encouraged to use traditional diyas (earthen lamps), but strictly at designated locations and in accordance with safety norms prescribed by temple authorities.
In addition, shopkeepers operating within and around the temple premises have been directed to stop the sale of candles with immediate effect. They have also been advised to stock and promote safer alternatives such as diyas and other approved prayer items that align with cultural practices.
The administration emphasized that these measures are aimed at ensuring the safety of devotees, maintaining order, and preserving the sanctity and structural integrity of the temple. The move has been positioned as a preventive step to avoid potential mishaps while allowing devotees to continue their rituals in a safe and regulated manner.
