Multiple cracks on Puri Srimandir’s 'Meghanada Pacheri'; repair works soon, says SJTA chief administrator

With multiple cracks emerging on the Meghanada Pacheri, the gigantic boundary wall surrounding the Puri Srimandir, questions are now being raised over the safety and security of the 12th-century shrine.

While wastewater from the Ananda Bazaar is seeping through the cracks, patches of mosses have taken over the wall protecting the shrine.

“The Meghanada Pacheri is gradually becoming weak due to water leakage and the chances of its collapse cannot be ruled out. Though OTV aired exclusive news about the poor condition of the wall, no action has been taken to repair it,” said Om Prakash Dash, a servitor.

Seconding Dash, another servitor Sachidananda Panda said, “Since 2021, water is constantly leaking through the Meghanada Pacheri, but no action has been taken by the temple administration. The repair and restoration work should be carried out immediately.”

Sarat Ryayguru, an intellectual said, “Though opposed, vibrators were used for the construction of the Parikrama Project which has resulted in cracks on the Meghanada Pacheri. Cracks are also seen on Uttara Dwara, Nata Mandap.”

Commenting on the development, Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee said, “We are also concerned over the present state of the Meghanada Pacheri. ASI and technical teams have inspected the boundary wall and necessary repair and restoration work will be carried out soon.”