PURI: The roof of Jagamohan of Jagannath Temple here was found to be more damaged than presumed. After de-plastering half of the roof, eight huge cracks were found while four pillars holding the roof have developed vertical cracks, said Dharmuprasad Mishra, a member of the State Technical team. Three cracks were detected before de- plastering of the roof, he added.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the State Government appointed technical team had examined the roof on Thursday.
The experts said actual damage could be assessed only after complete de-plastering of the roof.
Anticipating delicate and complex nature of repair work, the ASI had sought technical assistance from two private institutions. This apart, a team from IIT is expected to inspect and suggest measures regarding the repair strategy. The deplastering work is expected to be completed within a week, sources said.
The temple administration had handed over the Jagamohan to the ASI to conduct major repairs and restore structural stability of the 12th century temple.
To avoid shifting of the deities from the sanctum sanctorum and facilitate repair of Jagamohan, the temple administration rescheduled the daily niti and rituals of the Trinity.
As per the new schedule, the temple opens by 2 am everyday and closes by 11 am after which the ASI begins repair work which continues till 6 pm. Thereafter, the normal schedule of the temple begins.
The devotees are allowed to have a darshan of the deities from Baharkath. Moreover, as bhog is offered to the deities before 10 am, the Mahaprasad is available at Anand bazaar by 11 am daily.