Sun Temple Entry Fee Hike Sparks Protest

Konark: A couple of hours after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Wednesday decided to hike the entry fee of the world-famous Sun Temple, members of Konark Suraksha Samiti staged a protest in front of the 13^th century architectural marvel.

Hundreds of tourists were seen waiting at the entrance to the monument as the protestors locked up the cash counter, demanding immediate rollback of the decision.

“The ASI’s move is anti-people as it would put unnecessary burden on people visiting this stunning monument of religious significance. Hence, the decision should immediately be withdrawn,” one of the agitators said.

Following the hike, an Indian national now has to pay Rs 40, which is Rs 10 more than the existing price. Similarly, a foreign tourist has to cough up Rs 600 instead of Rs 500.

In May 2016, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had increased the entry fee for visitors to Rs 30 from Rs 10 for Indians while the entry fee for foreign tourists was doubled from Rs 250 to Rs 500 per head.

Opposing the move, members of Konark Suraksha Samiti had then called for a dawn-to-dusk strike and locked the main gate of the temple.