Bhubaneswar, Feb 8: An ASI expert team today inspected the ongoing conservation work at the world famous 13th century Sun Temple at Konark. Also Read - Rare Shiva Statue From 9th Century Which Was Stolen From Rajasthan & Smuggled to UK, To be Returned to India

The team lead by Director General of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Rakesh Srivastava examined the chemical treatment being done at temple, a huge stone chariot of the Sun god and popularly known as the Black Pagoda. Accompanied by Jiban Patnaik, superintendent of ASI’s Odisha branch, local archaeological officials and a team of experts, Srivastava also examined the stone idols at the Konark Temple. (ALSO READ: Government will decide on Ram temple issue after Supreme Court verdict: Kalraj Mishra) Also Read - Unlock 2: With Lockdown Guidelines in Place, Historic Monuments Across India Set to Open For Public Today

“We have put up scaffolding around the temple and started conducting chemical treatment after cleaning up the areas with pulp treatment. We will withdraw the scaffolding after the work is completed,” Srivastava told reporters. He, however said he had no idea when the work would be completed. The temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site draws a huge number of tourists from both within and outside the country. Also Read - 500-year-old Temple in Odisha Submerged in Mahanadi River Found | Read Deets Here

((Image Credit: Wikipedia))