The process for removal of sand from the Jagamohan (assembly hall) of the world-famous Sun Temple at Konark began with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) performing a Bhumi Pujan on Thursday.
It has been planned to remove the sand by utilising ultramodern technology and the entire process will take three years to complete.
“We have done detailed documentation (for the purpose). After conferring with several engineers and people having expertise, we have formulated a safe system,” said ASI Superintendent Arun Mallick.
“We will remove the sand through the four gates and stabilise the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum) so that people can go inside it,” he said.
“Besides a direction from the High Court of Orissa, we had also assurance from the (concerned) Minister. Keeping all these in view, we have started the work,” he said.
Asked about the time required for the completion of the project, Mallick said, “It can’t be said as to how much time it would exactly take because there are some aspects that are not in our control. We are now setting up a mechanical platform so that the work can progress at a fast pace. The platform will be placed from where we will make tunnels.”
To provide the technical know-how, the BDR Nirman Private Limited has been awarded the tender. None but the ASI staff will be engaged in sand removal work.
Notably, the assembly hall of the Sun Temple was filled with sand by the British in 1903. It was for the purpose of providing stability to the temple structure.
India has 38 UNESCO World Heritage Sites while Odisha has only one, the Black Pagoda dedicated to Lord Sun.