Bhubaneswar, April 22: The long-awaited process of removing sand from the iconic Konark Sun Temple is set to begin soon, with all technical preparations now completed. The initiative marks a major step in the conservation of the UNESCO World Heritage monument.
Earlier, experts assessed the condition of the sand by drilling into the temple’s western wall. Samples collected during the process were sent to IIT Madras for detailed analysis. The findings confirmed that the sand remains stable and safe, and its removal will not pose any threat to the structure. Based on these results, experts have given clearance for the operation.
The Archaeological Survey of India is currently carrying out final mapping. As per the plan, a narrow 16-centimetre tunnel will be created at a height of around 80 feet on the western side of the temple. For safety reasons, no human entry will be allowed inside. Instead, an automated robotic trolley will be deployed to extract sand from the sanctum and transport it safely.
A dedicated technical platform has already been constructed for the operation. The sand will be removed in phases and stored securely at the temple site. Officials said the entire process will be conducted under the supervision of senior experts to ensure the monument’s structural integrity remains intact.
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