Threat to Black Pagoda looms large

Bhubaneswar: Threat to world famous 13th century Sun Temple at Konark looms large as sand inside Jagmohan is caving in.

According to endoscopy photography of Central Building Research Team, the four pillars of Jagmohan are in dilapidated condition. Besides, the sand inside Jagmohan is caving in.

A gap of 62 foot has also developed in the Jagmohan, the photograph stated.

The dilapidated condition of the world famous temple has worried the officials of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and working committee formed over to safeguard the temple as experts predicted any kind of accident cannot be ruled out if a major earth quake takes place.

Also read: Jagmohan repair: ASI approves Core Committee’s design

Konark work group member, NC Pal said, “It is experimentally proved that the sand inside the Jagmohan has caved in and the beams are in dilapidated condition. If an earthquake of magnitude 6 or 6.5 richter takes place there is threat to the Sun Temple.”

Bijay Kumar Rath, member of Konark work group, said, “Four holes measuring around 18 inch long and 12 inch high have been formed. If we will attempt to fill the holes by widening them, there are chances of stone falling from the top. We need to open an entry gate through the western gate of the temple.”