(a) whether the Geological Survey of India in its recent report has expressed serious concern over the existence of famous temple of the Ganges ` Gangotri` situated in Uttarkashi District;
(b) if so, the details thereof ; and
(c) the step being taken by the Government to maintain the existence of `Gangotri`.
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (SHRI BACHI SINGH RAWAT)
(a) to (c) : A statement is attached.
STATEMENT AS REFFERED IN REPLAY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.4210 FOR 17.12.2002 REGARDING THE `TEMPLE OF THE GANGES `GANGOTRI`
No, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has not submitted any secret report on the famous temple of the Ganges `Gangotri` situated in Uttarkashi District. However, GSI has assessed a recent threat to Gangotri Temple Complex due to avalanches during June, 2002.
During the month of March 2002, it was reported that avalanche had hit the holy shrine of Gangotri involving some damages to the temple complex on the request of Uttaranchal Government. GSI studied this issue including slope stability in Gangotri area and suggested remedial measures. It was observed that the heavy snowfall in the previous winter had resulted in avalanche activity along Bhairaon Jhap Nala that caused some damages to peripheral buildings. However, Gangotri temple proper remained unscathed.
Construction of control structures like check dams and diversion structures in the middle and lower part of run out zone of Bhairon Jhap Nala is being suggested by GSI. The wire crates erected along the nala in the middle part need to be relocated to widen the nala course, especially in the middle to lower reaches. Other suggested measures include afforestation tying of the heaps of boulders with wire mesh and providing steel fencing.