Dhenkanal: The 14th century Ashtasambhu temple at Kualo under Parjang block in Dhenkanal district is in a very dilapidated condition and many feel that it will soon collapse, unless proper maintenance is undertaken. Even though the responsibility of maintenance lies with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the lack of it, is plaguing the historical structure.
The temple is one of the main attractions in the tourism and cultural map of Odisha. This shaivite shrine has always attracted visitors for its eye-catching intricate stone works.
In 1972, some repairing work was carried out by the then state government, but then for a little over 30 years, it was left to rot.
In 2004, the ASI took restoration responsibility. At that time, art lovers were sanguine about the temple getting back its lost sheen. But that did not happen either.
“Over the last 14 years, ASI has done nothing at all except to create an iron structure in front of the main temple for repairing purposes in 2012. However, no repairing work has been carried out, instead the new structure has destroyed the beauty of the temple,” said a few locals.
It is during the rainy season that the maximum damage takes place. “The rain water seeps into the sanctum sanctorum through the cracks between stones. It weakens the foundation,” others pointed out.
Also the brass (kalash) atop the temple structure without any proper earthing facility makes it vulnerable to lightning. Other problems include a well without water and presence of encroachers who have slowly but steadily occupied a major portion of the temple land. There is also no designated parking spot for visitors and their vehicles.
“It is really sad that such a beautiful temple has been left to rot. The government should take steps to preserve such testimonials of our magnificent ancient architecture,” some visitors observed.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan visited the temple and promised help some time back. He took some initiative and promised Central assistance for the restoration of the temple. Materials were brought for repairing work a few months ago. But work is yet to start.
ASI officer Prabhat Mishra stated that restoration work will only start after a tender is floated to invite vendors. However, till now the tender is yet to see the light of the day.
PNN