Complete Puri Srimandir's Nata Mandap Repair Work In 4 Months: Orissa HC Directs ASI

Cuttack: Taking cognizance of the inordinate delay in the repair works in Puri Jagannath Temple, Orissa High Court on Monday directed the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Usha Sharma to complete the repair of the temple's Nata Mandap within four months.

ASI DG, who made a personal appearance in High Court today, briefed the court regarding the repair works undertaken at the Puri Jagannath temple and Konark Sun temple. The High Court has directed ASI to prepare a compressive project report for the repair and renovation of the Sun temple in Konark.

“There was a delay of one and a half years in the repair works of Nata Mandap. When the matter was brought to the notice of the chief justice, the court directed ASI DG to appear in person,” said senior lawyer Nagendra Mohanty, who has been appointed as the amicus curiae by the High Court.

Mohanty further informed that not much has been done in Konark. The court today directed to carry out all works in a time-bound manner based on the recommendations of the high-level committee.

Lawyer Ashok Mohapatra informed that the ASI today assured that the all works at Puri Srimandir and Konark Sun Temple will be taken up with advice from experts’ committee. “The officials have also been asked to inform about their financial requirements which can be resolved with the help of the State government,” Mohapatra added.