ASI begins renovation of Ratna Bhandar, ensuring rituals continue uninterrupted

Bhubaneswar, Dec 17: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has officially initiated the long-anticipated repair and renovation of the Ratna Bhandar at Puri Srimandir as of Tuesday. This project will be conducted in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) established by the Odisha government.

The renovation will be overseen by a team of experts from the ASI alongside temple authorities. This team includes conservators, chemical specialists, medical professionals, Fire Services officials, and a dedicated ASI unit working on the Ratna Bhandar restoration.

Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan addressed the press, confirming that the repair work has commenced and is expected to be completed within three months. “The ASI has set a three-month timeline for the project, but we have encouraged them to expedite the process,” he noted. He also emphasized that the repair activities are scheduled to avoid any disruption to temple rituals or the darshan for devotees.

On the first day, ASI officials will commence initial repair tasks while ensuring they respect the timing of rituals related to Lord Jagannath and his divine siblings. Throughout the renovation, devotees will still be able to view the temple from outside the ‘Bahara Katha.’ The repair work is planned to occur daily for five hours, beginning around 12:30 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. and concluding at 6:00 p.m.

Initially, the team will install iron pillars for structural support, followed by the removal of plaster from the chambers. The restoration will involve work on both the inner and outer sections of the Ratna Bhandar simultaneously, including the installation of iron beams and other necessary rock work.