Bhubaneswar, November 5: Authorities at the iconic Puri Jagannath Temple have raised concerns over cracks in the temple's outer boundary wall, known as the Meghanad Prachari.
On Tuesday, the temple's Chief Administrator, Arabinda Kumar Padhee, emphasized the urgency of repair and conservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Padhee highlighted the ASI's ongoing responsibility for the temple's restoration and noted the need for rapid action to address recent structural concerns. "We have noticed a few cracks in the Meghanad Prachari, the outer wall of the Sri Jagannath Temple," he stated, adding that the temple administration's technical team has already conducted initial repairs, removed moss and algae, and taken steps to prevent further water seepage.
Addressing additional issues, Padhee pointed to a drainage problem near the Ananda Bajar area, which the administration is working to resolve.
He called for a comprehensive, scientific assessment of the outer wall to ensure the long-term stability and structural safety of the historic temple, assuring ASI of full support in the restoration works.
A priest at the temple, echoed Padhee’s concerns. "This is one of the oldest temples in India," He remarked. "We have requested ASI to restore the cracks as soon as possible."
The call for immediate action underlines the commitment to preserving the architectural integrity and historical significance of the centuries-old Puri Jagannath Temple.
