It has been confirmed that there are no concealed chambers or tunnels in either the Bahara (outer) or Bhitara (inner) sections of the temple treasury
OdishaPlus Bureau
Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has stated that there are no hidden chambers or tunnels within the Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of the Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri. In a press briefing on Friday, Harichandan remarked, “Based on initial discussions with the scientists and experts conducting the Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey, it has been confirmed that there are no concealed chambers or tunnels in either the Bahara (outer) or Bhitara (inner) sections of the temple treasury.” The final report from the GPR survey is anticipated to be released shortly.
In September, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) collaborated with the CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (CSIR-NGRI) from Hyderabad to perform the GPR survey of the Ratna Bhandar.
The Minister also indicated that the inventory of the deities’ jewels and ornaments will begin after the New Year. He explained, “Due to the high volume of visitors during the Hindu month of Kartik, repair work can only commence following Kartik Purnima. The ASI will require approximately one to one-and-a-half months to complete these repairs.” He further noted, “Once the repairs are finished, all jewels and ornaments currently stored in the temporary Bahara and Bhitara Bhandar will be transferred to the Ratna Bhandar. The inventory process will be conducted within the Ratna Bhandar, adhering to safety protocols and the temple’s established regulations.”
After the conclusion of the Kartik month, the ASI will proceed with repairs in both chambers. The final incentivization report will be published after the previous inventory list is reviewed.
