Konark: Locals here have alleged massive irregularities in the construction of boundary wall of the Sun Temple by the Union government and demanded a thorough probe into the matter.
According to reports, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has assigned the boundary wall project to Shasank Sekhar Nayak, a contractor, after the tender was approved.
The ASI has sanctioned Rs 20 lakh for the construction of the boundary wall. However, some intellectuals, senior citizens, and culture enthusiasts of the area have raised concerns over the substandard raw materials used in the construction of the wall. Poor-quality steel rods, cement, and low-grade stones and sand were used in the construction, they alleged.
“The Black Pagoda, located on the eastern shores of the sub-continent is famous for its vibrant culture, temple architecture and art. But the substandard work has exposed the negligent attitude of the authorities,” said a local. The work is not being monitored due to various reasons including the absence of ASI officials, some of the locals alleged.
Since the particular contractor gets the maximum number of projects, locals suspect that the authorities are showing undue favour to the contractor.
The concerned citizens of the area have demanded a high-level probe into the matter by a team of ASI director, Puri Collector and the Superintendent of Police.
Local ASI official Niraj Singh assured the people that a proper investigation would be conducted into the matter and legal action would be initiated if anyone is found guilty.
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