The lightning arrester earthing system installed in the Nilachakra, the metal wheel fixed atop the Jagannath Temple in Puri, has been damaged by none other than monkeys. The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) informed this to the Orissa High Court through an affidavit on Tuesday. At least eight out of 12 copper spikes of the earthing have been damaged, it said.
The ASI mentioned that a team of experts examined the condition of Nilachakra and the earthing system. The team suggested for immediate repair of the spikes, the affidavit read.
The ASI also mentioned that they require space to carry out repair work of Nata Mandap at the Shreemandir. As the significant portion of the temple always remains jammed with devotees, the officials engaged in the repairing work face difficulties.
A Bench of Chief Justice Vineet Saran and Justice BR Sarangi of Orissa High Court, which is monitoring repair work of the temple, asked the ASI and State Government’s GED to submit a status report on repair work by March 13.
The court also directed the temple administration to make it clear about opening of Jagamohan, whose repair work is in final stage now, during the next hearing.