Odisha CM urges Centre to solve water logging problem at Konark temple

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday requested Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma to take measures to prevent the water-logging problem at world famous Konark Sun Temple.

The Chief Minister informed that the temple complex is now facing a perpetual problem of water logging which poses threat to the world heritage monument.

He said it is now imperative to take up the measures to drain out water from the temple premises for enhancing the longevity of the temple complex as well to facilitate the visitors to witness the glory and grandeur of the standing 13th-century edifice.

“The Archaeological Survey of India — the custodian of the temple may be asked to take up immediate steps for proper drainage of water on a permanent basis,” he added.

Considering the seriousness of the issue, the state government would be extremely keen to take up the drainage work, if Archeological Survey of India gives due permission, said Patnaik.

“However, what is important is that the flooding problem that poses threat to this World Heritage Monument is immediately attended to and a permanent solution is found,” said the Chief Minister.

The Sun Temple of Konark is a World Heritage Monument declared by the UNESCO in the year 1984.The ruins and the conserved structure delineates the culture, literature, art, heritage and history of the bygone era, particularly, it represents the creative brilliance of Odisha’s unique temple architecture and craftsmanship.

A masterpiece in both conception and realization, the temple, represents a chariot of the Sun God, with twelve pairs of wheels, drawn by seven horses, evoking its movement across the heavens.

It is embellished with sophisticated and refined iconographical depictions of the contemporary life and activities.

The Sun Temple is an exceptional testimony, in physical form, of the 13th-century, under the reign of Narasimha Deva I (AD 1238-1264).

“This temple complex is now facing a perpetual problem of water logging which affects the temple very much causing problems to the visiting tourists as well as hurting the emotions of the people,” said the Chief Minister.