Bhubaneswar: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will conduct preliminary inspection of the Ratna Bhandar (treasure trove) of the Shree Jagannath Temple on September 18.
According to a notice of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) shared by it on its X handle, this has been informed to the SJTA by the ASI.
Accordingly, following approval of the State government the preliminary inspection and technical survey will take place.The inspection will be carried out under the leadership of the Additional Director General of ASI.
Meanwhile, SJTA Chief Administrator Dr Arabinda Padhee apart from conducting a review of all preparations for this has directed for taking necessary steps. Earlier, as per the SOP approved by the state government, all the ornaments from the outer and inner Ratna Bhandar have been shifted to the temporary strong room and the empty almirahs and chests have been shifted. However, it was requested to conduct a survey using the latest technology before repair and conservation.
The ASI was requested to take care to ensure that there is no adverse impact on the temple. The Chief Administrator has requested ASI to complete repair and conservation work of Ratna Bhandar without delay after thorough technical inspection using modern technology.
