Konark Sun Temple Restoration: ASI Scientific Conservation project.

Overview

A large conservation project has been initiated by the Archaeological Survey of India in the Konark Sun Temple, a 13th-century architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The project aims at eliminating sand in the Jagamohan (assembly hall) that had been stuffed more than a century ago to avoid collapsing. This is a big move towards recovering the original integrity of the temple with the help of modern science.

Why was the Jagamohan Filled with Sand?

In 1901-1903, the Jagamohan was filled with sand by British engineers as an emergency measure to stabilise the building. Although it allowed it to avoid immediate collapse, it nailed the building, prevented the study inside of it, and curtailed long-term preservation. Nowadays, developed engineering methods enable a harmless backlash of this intervention.

Restoration Process and Methodology.

ASI is pursuing a conservative and technologically-led strategy. The western wall is being drilled through with the use of diamond drilling in order to reduce vibrations. Sand removal is being done in stages after drilling. Constant structural check ups are made to have the monument stable in the process. The process will require approximately a year to complete and is a complex one.

Scientific Evaluation in Advance.

ASI did thorough studies before embarking on the project. Test holes were dug and samples were tested by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras. Results proved that the sand was stable and the removal could be done under the strong supervision of experts.

History of the Temple.

The temple was constructed by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 13th century in the form of a विशाल stone chariot in the honor of the Sun God. It is also known as having a complex carving, engineering, and symbolic architecture reflecting time and cosmic movement.

Exam-Focused Points

• Konark Sun Temple: Odisha UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Jagamohan: Sand filled assembly hall (1901–03).
• Restoration agency: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
• Technology: Diamond drilling + sand removal by hand.
• Constructed by: Narasimhadeva I (13th century)

MCQ

Q. What is the reason of the sand being initially stuffed into the Jagamohan in the Konark Sun Temple?
A. To improve architecture.
B. To safeguard it against floods.
C. To avoid structural collapse.
D. For religious rituals

Answer: C

Background: The sanding The Jagamohan was filled with sand by British engineers in the early 20th century as a stabilisation technique to stop the structure collapsing.