Konark Sun Temple inundated after heavy rainfall; tourists lambast lack of drainage system

The famed Konark Sun Temple, celebrated for its century-old architecture, grappled with severe waterlogging following unremitting rainfall on Wednesday. A low-pressure system triggered persistent downpours across several districts in Odisha, leaving several areas inundated, including the revered temples.

The flooding across the grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage site in Puri created challenges for both tourists and residents alike, triggering outrage. Despite such repeated incidents, no concrete steps have been taken in this regard, irate locals alleged.

Waterlogging Disrupts Life

Visitors to the temple, assembled from across the country and abroad, faced significant disruptions due to the waterlogging, particularly severe in the northwestern corner of the temple complex. Tourists encountered difficulties navigating the inundated pathways, with some sections of the site temporarily impassable.

Efforts to Mitigate Flooding

Even as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) intervened by deploying a pump set to alleviate the waterlogging by draining the excess water, tourists expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of a proper drainage system.

“They have zero facilities to drain the rainwater. There is no drainage system. It is utter negligence. This is such a bad impression for tourists coming from far and wide. Tourists are not satisfied, especially elderly people are facing problems as they have to wade through knee-deep waters,” a tourist stated.

Likewise, another tourist stated, “There is fear of slipping and injuries from falling. This is totally unacceptable. Immediate steps should be taken to ensure a proper drainage system.”

Meanwhile, the ASI ensured a swift response to safeguard the integrity of the temple and continued access for visitors.