Concerns have intensified regarding the cracks appearing in the Meghanada Prachir, the protective wall surrounding Puri’s Jagannath Temple. In response to this pressing issue, the state government has directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to undertake necessary repair measures. Many, including Bhagwan Jagannath’s chief Badagrahi, Jagannath Swain Mohapatra, as well as various political figures, are attributing the damage to the Heritage Corridor Project initiated by the previous Naveen Patnaik administration.
The Heritage Corridor Project involved extensive excavations around the temple, employing large JCB machines to clear nearby mutts and structures. From the outset, there were objections and concerns that the vibrations and the removal of these ancient structures could compromise the stability of the Meghanada Prachir and the temple itself. Now, with the cracks becoming increasingly visible, criticism of the project has resurfaced. The state BJP has also pointed fingers at former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and his close aide, VK Pandian, holding them accountable for the current state of the Prachir.
Jagannath Swain Mohapatra expressed deep concern, explaining that the ancient mutts, temples, and houses that once surrounded the Srimandir provided critical support to the monumental boundary wall. “With their removal, the wall has lost its traditional support structure, and the vibrations from the demolition work have further destabilised it,” he said. “These structures also served as barriers against the saline air from the sea, which is another factor contributing to the rapid deterioration of the wall.” Mohapatra warned, “If the ASI does not carry out proper repairs with special attention, it won’t be long before the wall collapses entirely.”
Proper precautions should have been taken during the project : Amar Satpathy
Former minister in Naveen Patnaik’s cabinet, Amar Satpathy, also linked the cracks in the Meghanada Prachir to the Parikrama Prakalpa work. “The sentiments of millions are tied to the Srimandir. Proper precautions should have been taken during the project. If any mistakes were made, Bhagwan Jagannath will ensure justice,” Satpathy commented.
‘Some mistakes cannot be forgiven’: BJP slams BJD
The ruling BJP has sharply criticised the previous BJD government over the emergence of multiple cracks in the Meghanada Prachir, the massive boundary wall surrounding Puri’s Srimandir. State BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal attributed the damage to missteps by former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and his aide, V.K. Pandian, stating, “Some mistakes cannot be forgiven. Decisions made by Naveen Babu and his associate Pandian are now costing the people of Odisha.”
Biswal expressed dismay at what he described as a compromise of Odisha’s ancient heritage for political gain. “The temple of Bhagwan Jagannath represents our pride and identity. The cracks appearing in the Meghanada Prachir are concerning for millions of Jagannath devotees. Although the Archaeological Department and the state government have initiated repairs, we must ask why this damage occurred in the first place.”
He further questioned the practices followed during the construction of the Parikrama Project. “Enormous machines were used to dig large holes around the Srimandir, affecting the Meghanada Prachir. These excavations took place without the necessary approvals from the Archaeological Department and the National Monument Authority, violating the AMASR Act of 1958. This case even reached the courts. Why was there no heritage impact assessment conducted before proceeding? Under National Monument Authority rules, no digging should occur within a 100-metre radius of the temple. Yet massive excavations were carried out near this 900-year-old monument, compromising its stability.”
“It is surprising that if roads and toilets were to be constructed, why such huge holes were dug around the temple? Is it not a conspiracy? Naveen Babu and Pandian Babu should clarify the matter,” he added.
SJTA Urges ASI to Prioritise Restoration Work
In response to concerns about cracks appearing on the Meghanada Prachir of the Jagannath Temple, Chief Administrator Arabinda Kumar Padhee announced, “The ASI has been supervising the restoration and repair efforts at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Recently, cracks have been identified on the temple’s outer wall, prompting us to urgently request that the ASI prioritise its restoration. Furthermore, the temple administration’s technical team has acted swiftly to conduct necessary repairs. We have filled the crevices, removed moss and algae from affected areas, and implemented measures to prevent water seepage.”
Padhee also pointed out a specific issue regarding drainage from the Anandabazar side, which the administration is addressing. “We are committed to fully supporting the ASI during this process. We have requested a comprehensive scientific survey and study of the Meghanada Prachir to ensure a long-term approach to the repair work” he added.
