HYDERABAD: Some of the temples constructed during the Kakatiya dynasty in the 13th century in Warangal district, are all set to be restored. The temples, which are presently in a dilapidated condition will be dismantled and re-constructed.
In the first phase five important temples - Katakshapur, Jakaram, Ramanujapuram, Busapur, Ghanpur group of temples - have been chosen for reconstruction.
Though the temples are a part of State-protected monuments, they have not been properly maintained over the years.
Officials told Express that the structure is weak in all these temples as the `sand box’ technology used for the foundation is in danger. As a result, the stones used in the construction of the roof-top and in other parts of the temple started crumbling. ``One can see the debris in the premises of these temples,’’ officials said.
At a recent meeting, the Archaeology and Museums Department officials have decided to remove all the remaining stones used in the construction of temples before strengthening the sand box.
“Each stone will be numbered before dismantling the structure. After strengthening the foundation, the temple will be reconstructed exactly in the same shape,’’ Archaeology and Museums Director P Chenna Reddy told Express.
These temples spread over in different parts of Warangal district have been lying in a neglected state for almost 700 years. The land around the temple is also being used for cultivation.
“Besides strengthening the sand box, we will use concrete in some parts of the foundation to close the gaps,’’ officials said.
In the past, Ramanujapuram temple was relocated from the original site to another location but the temple is yet to be reconstructed. This created gaps in the foundation and made the structure weak. The State Government has already allocated Rs 4 crore for the restoration of these temples.
As of now, most of the tourists visit only the 1000-pillar temple. “Though they intend to visit other temples as well, poor maintenance comes in the way. But now we want to develop Warangal as a tourist destination in coordination with Archaeological Survey of India which maintains Ramappa temple,’’ officials said.
Minister for Tourism J Geeta Reddy reviewed the status of the restoration works today.
