Puri: Jagannath Temple, famous for its unique religious and cultural heritage, is now facing a new concern. Cracks have started appearing in the huge Meghnad Pacheri wall surrounding the temple, indicating a threat to the existence of this ancient structure. Deep concerns have arisen among the servicemen and devotees regarding the condition of this wall built in the 12th century.
Dirty water seeping from Anand Bazaar inside the temple complex has weakened the walls, leading to not only cracks in the walls but also accumulation of layers of green moss. If repairs are not made in time, the entire wall may decay, posing a serious threat to the safety of the temple.
Experts and conservationists have also taken this issue seriously. Their concerns also include the question of safety of Meghnad Pacheri, which has been guarding the Jagannath temple for centuries. The temple administration and devotees have requested the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to immediately come forward and inspect the wall.
Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said, “We are investigating the cause of the cracks. ASI is preparing for repair and damage control in this matter. We suspect that the cracks in the wall may be due to some prohibited act.”