Question : Conservation of Konark Temple

(a) whether the Union Government is aware that World Heritage Monument Konark Sun Temple faces conservation problems like saline ingress, water logging, erosion and other vegetative intrusions into the temple structure;

(b) if so, whether the Union Government has received any representation from the Government of Odisha in this regard and if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether this issue was also discussed in various national and international meetings and seminars;

(d) the action taken by the Government on the recommendations made inthese meetings and seminars; and

(e) whether the Union Government is considering any long term measures for comprehensive preservation of Konark Temple and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR CULTURE AND TOURISM

(PRAHLAD SINGH PATEL)

(a) Yes, Sir. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is well aware about these problems, which have been addressed appropriately such as chemical preservation to counter the effect of saline ingress as well as micro vegetation growth, effective drainage system to prevent water logging and plantation of trees around the monument to check the effects of erosion.


(b) Yes, Sir. The representation received from the Government of Odisha about the news item published in Odia Daily has been replied in detailed letter sent in November, 2018.

(c) & (d) The conservation issues of Sun Temple Konark are regularly monitored and discussed by the ASI internally and in other national and international meetings/seminars. The recommendations have been appropriately implemented and due to regular care by ASI, the monument is in a good state of preservation.

(e) Conservation work of protected monuments including Sun Temple, Konark is a continuous process and ASI is taking due care regularly for its conservation, preservation and environmental development.