Centre To Depute Experts To Examine Iron Beams Of Konark Temple In Odisha, Says Minister

Bhubaneswar: The Centre would depute a team of experts to examine the condition of the iron beams in Sun Temple at Konark in Puri district.

This was stated by Union Steel Minister Ramchandra Prasad Singh while speaking at the ‘Conference with Mines and Industry Ministers’ at Ramchandi in Konark on Friday.

The minister said the experts to be deputed by the Steel Ministry will conduct tests to confirm the condition of the beams that have been supporting the 13th century temple. They would also make suggestion on conservation measures for the the World Heritage structure, he added.

The conference, organised by the Steel Ministry, aims at offering an opportunity to the states and other stakeholders to present the issues related to mining leases, environment clearances, forest clearances of ongoing and new mining projects.

The Sun Temple was built with Khondalite stones and iron beams between every two stone blocks to strengthen the structure. Since the use of iron in construction of structures was unheard of in 13th century, its use makes the temple an architectural wonder in the world.

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