Cracks on Puri Jagannath Temple Wall Spark Safety Concerns

Puri: Several cracks have emerged on the Meghanada Pacheri, the massive boundary wall that encircles the revered 12th-century Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. The deterioration of this historic structure has sparked concerns about the safety and preservation of one of India’s most significant shrines.

The cracks are reportedly allowing wastewater from the Ananda Bazaar, an area within the temple premises, to seep through the wall. This seepage has led to the growth of algae, which now covers sections of the Meghanada Pacheri, raising further alarm over the wall’s condition and the potential impact on the temple’s structural integrity.

A servitor of the temple highlighted the issue, stating, “Since 2021, water has been leaking through the Meghanada Pacheri, yet the temple administration has not initiated any repairs. Immediate restoration work is necessary.” The servitor emphasized the need for prompt intervention to prevent further deterioration.

In response, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee addressed the concerns, saying, “We are equally concerned about the current state of the Meghanada Pacheri. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and technical teams have inspected the wall, and essential repair and restoration work will commence soon.”

The temple’s administration, along with the ASI, is expected to take immediate measures to repair and restore the Meghanada Pacheri. This move aims to ensure the longevity and safety of this ancient structure, preserving it for future generations and safeguarding the sanctity of the Puri Jagannath Temple.