TNI Bureau: The construction work of the three chariots for the annual Ratha Jatra of Lord Jagannath and His siblings in Puri has been stopped following a dispute over the collection of leftover wood, locally known as ‘Khei wood’.

According to sources, the Vishwakarma Maharana servitors stopped the chariot construction work after objections were raised over new restrictions on the removal of surplus wood from the construction site.

Traditionally, the servitors were allowed to take rounded wooden pieces measuring up to four feet in length as Khei wood. However, under revised administrative guidelines, restrictions have been imposed on the practice.

Protesting the new rules, the Vishwakarma Maharanas stopped the chariot construction work, raising concerns as the annual Ratha Jatra is less than a month away.