ASI Begins Conservation of Konark Sun Temple
| Aspect | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Project Initiator | Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) |
| Site | Konark Sun Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) |
| Objective | Remove sand filled by British engineers (1901-1903) to stabilize the Jagamohan (assembly hall) |
| Restoration Method | Controlled drilling (6×5 ft passage) using diamond drilling technology to avoid vibrations |
| Pre-Restoration Study | Test drilling in Dec 2023, sand analyzed by IIT Madras, found stable |
| Historical Context | Built in 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I (Eastern Ganga Dynasty), took 12 years, involved 1,200 artisans |