Complete Puri Srimandir Ratna Bhandar survey by Sep 24, SJTA chief to ASI

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee wrote a letter to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to complete the inspection work of Puri Srimandir Ratna Bhandar by September 24.

In his letter to the ASI DG, Padhee urged him to ensure the completion of the technical survey of the treasure trove of the 12th-century shrine by September 24 in view of the special ritual of the Holy Trinity during Dussehra ‘Shola Puja’ and holy Kartik month.

The Chief Administrator has also urged the ASI to submit the survey report within the stipulated time, sources said.

A high-level team led by the ASI conducted the first phase inspection of the Ratna Bhandar on Wednesday.

The 17-member team conducted a detailed assessment using laser scanners for documentation and other key aspects which are necessary for taking up repair works of the treasure trove of Lord Jagannath.

A GPR survey is also likely to be conducted to find out if there is something below the earth or any void on walls inside Ratna Bhandar as several stories surrounding the presence of any secret tunnel have been widely discussed among the public.

Earlier, all the valuables including gold ornaments of Lord Jagannath and HIs siblings were shifted to a temporary strong room inside the Puri Srimandir complex.

The inspection by the experts’ team assumes significance as subsequently, measures would be taken for the repair of the Ratna Bhandar as its structure has suffered damage.