Bhubaneswar: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) initiated an advanced laser scanning survey at the historic Konark Sun Temple in Puri on Monday. This survey is part of preparatory efforts for a large-scale beautification project aimed at preserving the heritage site and enhancing its surroundings. The initiative will provide crucial insights into the temple’s structural integrity and underground areas.
A specialized three-member team from the National Geographical Research Institute (NGRI), along with ASI Puri Circle officials, including Superintendent DB Garnayak and Deputy Engineer Chittaranjan Das, conducted the Ground Penetrating Radar System (GPRS) laser scanning. The survey focused on the temple’s sanctum sanctorum and underground areas to detect any hidden chambers or buried debris beneath the 13th-century architectural masterpiece.
Led by Senior Scientist Dr. AK Pandey, the NGRI team included Scientists Nilesh Kumar Jaiswal and Satish Chandra Verma. The scanning was requested by the state government as part of its effort to ensure the temple’s preservation before initiating the beautification work. The team also examined the surrounding areas of the temple to gather information for the project.
“The beautification process will commence after the results from the GPRS laser scans are analyzed and reviewed,” said ASI Puri Superintendent DB Garnayak.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Konark Sun Temple holds immense cultural and historical value. The upcoming beautification project aims to both enhance the visual appeal of the temple’s surroundings and ensure the continued preservation of this architectural gem.