The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is set to commence repair work on the Ratna Bhandar (treasure trove) of Bhagwan Jagannath within the Srimandir Mandir in Puri, tentatively scheduled for December 16. However, this timeline is contingent upon confirmation from a meeting of the Niti Sub-Committee, as indicated by ASI Superintendent D B Garnaik.
Further decisions regarding the repair work will be made at the upcoming Niti Sub-Committee meeting. “We have scheduled the work to begin on December 16,” Garnaik stated.
Garnaik also noted that the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has already granted permission to do the repairs. The ASI intends to start the work on December 16, pending approval of the specific time slot after the committee’s meeting. “We are prepared for it, but we expect the time slot to be confirmed after the Niti Sub-Committee meeting, which is likely to take place within a day or two,” the ASI superintendent added.
The repair work will proceed for five to six hours daily, beginning with the refurbishment of the exterior of the Ratna Bhandar, followed by attention to the interior. Any damaged stones will be replaced as necessary.
In a discussion with media representatives, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan emphasised that once the repair work is completed, an inventory and evaluation of the ornaments housed in the Ratna Bhandar will occur. The government aims to complete this process by January 31. Harichandan explained that the Ratna Bhandar had been closed for several years, resulting in significant repair needs. After the repairs are finished, the ornaments will be transferred from a temporary treasury to a permanent one, and a detailed inventory will be conducted. The repairs and inventory process are part of efforts to preserve the treasures and ensure their proper care.
It is noteworthy that the jewels and ornaments were relocated from the Ratna Bhandar on July 14 and 18. On September 21 and 22, an ASI technical team conducted an inspection of the Ratna Bhandar. A few days ago, the Srimandir administration announced that repair work would commence soon. During the meeting of the Chhatishaniyoga, discussions will take place regarding the repair work of the Ratna Bhandar, Pahili Bhoga Niti, Debabhesha Purnima Niti, and Makar Sankranti Niti.
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