Conservation of Jagannath temple discussed at SJTA-ASI meeting in Delhi

Puri: The chief administrator of the Jagannath Temple, Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, on Wednesday met the director general of the Archaeological Survey of India, Dr Yajurvendra Singh Rawat, in New Delhi to discuss critical conservation work related to the 12th-century shrine.

During the meeting, Padhee and Rawat held detailed discussions on several ongoing and proposed conservation initiatives concerning the temple. The SJTA chief urged ASI to take up immediate conservation of the Bhoga Mandapa, one of the most important structures within the temple complex.

Padhee also requested ASI to depute a technical team to inspect and assess the structural stability of the iron beams installed on the exterior side of the Jagamohana. These beams were fitted nearly a century ago and require technical evaluation to ensure long-term safety.

The discussions further covered the proposed heritage illumination project for the temple as well as other conservation measures, including joint sealing and chemical treatment of the exterior surface of the main temple structure.

Padhee appreciated the continued support and efforts of ASI in carrying out conservation and repair works of the Ratna Bhandar to ensure its structural safety.