A study conducted recently on the structural safety of the 13th-Century word-famous Sun Temple at Konark has revealed that the condition of its Jagamohan is precarious now, and it has been suggested to the authorities to take immediate measures for its restoration.
According to the study conducted by the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, the sand filled inside the Jagamohan way back in 1903 to support its weak walls has slumped four feet than the prior level.
The CBRI had conducted an endoscopic photography of the monument to ascertain the condition its interiors and also to ensure its proper conservation and safety.
The 3-D laser scanning revealed that some stones have dislodged from inside and fallen on the ground. Besides, the iron beam erected to support the structure from inside has also caved in.
The experts, who conducted the study, have expressed concern and stated that it might collapse, if timely measures are not taken.
Of the three levels inside Jagamohana, the sand level has gone down by two levels. The British era beams have also destabilised. The 3-D laser scan has clearly indicated this, the experts said at a meeting held at Pantha Niwas in Bhubaneswar recently. They too suggested permanent curative measures to prevent it from further decay.
It may be mentioned here that Jagamohan was filled with sand during the renovation of the temple in 1903 under instructions of the then lt Governor of Bengal JA Bourdillon. The four entrances to the structure were sealed after its inside filled with sand as a permanent measure to prevent the structure from collapsing.
The CBRI had too carried out a 3-D laser scan of the monument using a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) last year. Then, five robotic cameras were inserted to the temple’s interior from four sides through its wall and also from the temple’s top. The 3-D scan gives a clear, digital picture of the entire layout and structure of the temple.