Bhubaneswar, May 24: The process of removing sand from the sanctum sanctorum of the historic Sun Temple in Konark is set to begin shortly, according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). On Saturday, ASI Director General Yadubir Singh Rawat visited the iconic 13th-century monument to assess the structure’s current condition and oversee ongoing conservation efforts.

Rawat was accompanied by a 15-member expert team, including the Puri Circle Officer. The delegation conducted a detailed inspection of both the structural stability and the preparedness for sand removal from the inner sanctum—a move anticipated for many years as part of broader restoration efforts.

Over the past two years, the ASI has undertaken significant preparatory work to facilitate this delicate task. This includes the installation of mechanical working platforms, iron scaffolding, and ladders in the northwest and southwest corners of the temple to ensure the safety of workers and the integrity of the monument during the operation.

The removal of sand, which was originally filled to prevent structural collapse, marks a critical phase in restoring the sanctum to its original form, while preserving the UNESCO World Heritage Site's architectural grandeur.

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