Structural Remains Detected During Ground Survey At Konark Sun Temple In Odisha

Puri: Some structural remains were reportedly detected during the ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey conducted at Sun temple in Odisha’s Konark.

As per information, the GPR survey carried out by Archaeological Survey of India and CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (CSIR-NGRI) concluded on Tuesday.

“We have detected structural remains three to four feet below the surface level in both northeastern and southeastern sides of the Jagamohan. However, it is too early to say what these remains are. They may be walls, pillars or just stones,” ASI’s Puri circle head D B Gadnayak was quoted by TNIE as saying.

A continuous pattern is being seen in the northeastern side, while the remains appear segregated in the southeastern side.

The GPR survey was carried out by CSIR-NGRI as part of efforts to trace the habitational profile of the Sun temple complex. The Puri circle of ASI is reportedly planning to excavate the area around the Jagamohan to ascertain if there is any stone lump and structure beneath the surface.

There are plans for beautification and setting up tourist amenities on the outer complex of the temple. While there will be rest rooms for senior citizens, toilet complexes will also come up.

The ASI wanted to check if there are any heritage remains under the surface before beginning the work, Gadnayak said. Permission of the Director General of ASI will be sought for excavation of the two areas at the site.