Bhubaneswar, April 22: Sand packed inside the iconic Konark Sun Temple will soon be removed, with all technical preparations for the complex conservation process now complete.

According to reports, prior to taking the decision, experts assessed the condition of the sand by drilling into the western wall of the temple. Samples collected were sent to IIT Madras for scientific analysis, which confirmed that the sand remains stable and safe. Based on expert opinion, authorities concluded that its removal would not pose any structural risk to the historic monument.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has completed final mapping for the operation. As per the plan, a 16-centimetre tunnel will be created in the western wall at a height of about 80 feet. For safety reasons, no personnel will enter the passage. Instead, an automated robotic trolley will be deployed to extract sand from the sanctum and transport it outside.

A technical platform has already been set up for the operation. The sand will be removed in phases and stored securely at the temple site. Officials said the entire process will be carried out under expert supervision to ensure preservation of the monument’s structural integrity.

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