Puri: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) would complete repair work at Srimandir by June 17.
This was revealed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik who visited Srimandir Saturday to inspect the damage caused by cyclonic storm Fani.
Patnaik reached the Lions’ Gate of Srimandir in the afternoon and entered into shrine through Baishi Pahacha (22 steps) and Ghantidwar. He paid obeisance to the presiding deities from near Bhitarkatha (inner cordon), sources said.
SJTA chief administrator Pradipta Mohapatra and other officials of the temple administration briefed Patnaik about the damage caused by the cyclone at Srimandir. The Chief Minister observed the broken Jay idol at the Lions’ Gate and some other damages at Bhogamandap. He also took stock of the broken lion figures at the main temple and damages at Anandbazar, the designated place for the sale and purchase of Mahaprasad.
The SJTA officials informed Patnaik about the damage caused by cyclone Fani at Gundicha temple.
“The cyclonic storm has caused several damages at Srimandir. I have discussed the issue with the ASI and the SJTA. The repair work would be completed by June 17,” Patnaik said.
SJTA chief administrator said they have enlisted the works to be taken up by the ASI and the temple administration. “We have already started repairing damages at Srimandir and Gundicha temple. We are taking steps to finish the work by June 17,” he said.
According to the SJTA chief, the ASI has been told to carve an idol of Jay out of stone and install it at the Lions’ Gate. “The cyclone has caused severe damages at Gundicha temple. The kitchen, servitors’ restroom and a few sheds at the temple have been destroyed by the storm,” said the SJTA chief.
Among others, Inspector General of Police (Central) Soumendra Priyadarshi, Puri Collector Balwant Singh and senior officials of SJTA and ASI were present during Patnaik’s visit to Srimandir.
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