Puri: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has imposed restrictions on visitors climbing the Nata Mandap at the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha’s Puri district as a safety measure.
According to the ASI, the decision to prevent tourists from entering the area has been taken in view of safety concerns and the need to protect the structure at the UNESCO world heritage site
As per the directive, visitors will no longer be allowed to move on to the Nata Mandap or touch the sculpted stone artworks. Security personnel have been deployed to ensure compliance at the site.
Visitors often attempt to climb the Mandap to view the spot where the first rays of the sun fall on the idol of Lord Surya (Sun) inside the temple. Many also take selfies atop the structure, leading to multiple injuries as the platform lacks protective fencing.
Taking note of recurring mishaps and the risk of damage to the 13th-century monument, the ASI has prohibited entry to the Mandap. However, tourists can still take a circular tour around it for viewing.
The Konark Sun Temple, celebrated for its magnificent Kalinga architecture and intricate stone carvings, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.