Sand Removal at Konark Sun Temple to Start Soon, Confirms ASI Chief

Sand Removal at Konark Sun Temple to Start Soon, Confirms ASI Chief (Image: Canva)

BHUBANESWAR: The much-anticipated process of sand removal at the Konark Sun Temple is all set to begin, as confirmed by Yadubir Singh Rawat, Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The restoration activity aims to preserve and protect the World Heritage Site, especially the inner structure of the Jagamohan—the temple's assembly hall.

ASI Prepares for Major Conservation at Konark Sun Temple

During his visit to the iconic 13th-century Sun Temple in Odisha, the ASI chief reviewed ongoing conservation works and the preparations for sand extraction. This step follows an earlier directive by the then Union Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel in 2020, calling for removal of the sand that was filled inside the temple by the British during the colonial era to stabilize the structure.

Technical Setup in Place for Sand Removal

To safely carry out the task, the ASI has already installed a mechanical working platform near the western side of the Jagamohan. Stones above the Antarala (a connecting passage between temple structures) will be carefully removed to create a 6 ft x 5 ft manual tunnel. This access point will align with the original site where the British had filled sand inside the monument for structural support.

Sand Extraction Strategy: What’s Next?

In the coming days, the ASI will set up lifts and other tools required to begin the drilling and excavation work. Once the demarcated section is accessed, a tunnel will be created, enabling workers to safely enter the Jagamohan and assess the condition of the sand and its removal feasibility. A senior ASI official stated, “As of now, our aim will be to check the feasibility of removal of sand from the point.” This cautious approach ensures that no structural damage occurs during the delicate operation.

According to available data, the Jagamohan currently contains sand up to 19.8 metres (64.9 feet) from its base. The temple itself rises to a height of 39.6 metres (130 feet). Over the years, this sand has naturally settled down by approximately 5.8 metres (19 feet) from the top. Prior to initiating the removal work, the ASI had set up a four-member expert panel, including structural engineering expert Prof. Arun Menon from IIT-Madras. This committee thoroughly studied the condition of the temple and earlier surveys to chalk out a safe and effective removal strategy.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the sand removal had already been performed back in 2022. With groundwork now complete, the ASI is ready to take the next major step in this crucial restoration project.

The Konark Sun Temple, renowned for its chariot-like structure dedicated to the Sun God Surya, is not only a symbol of ancient Indian architecture but also a major tourist attraction in Odisha. This conservation initiative by ASI is expected to breathe new life into the centuries-old monument, ensuring it stands tall for generations to come.