The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has started the sand extraction process in the Jagamohan, the assembly hall of the 13th-century Konark Sun Temple in Odisha, in a carefully planned effort to stabilise and conserve the monument.
The sand extraction process, which has remained sealed for about 123 years, is expected to be completed in three months, ASI officials said.
Controlled drilling and robotic systems are being used to aid the conservation effort, with a narrow passage being created between the first and second "pidha" on the western wall to manually remove sand and conserve the inner structure.
Engineers have constructed a working platform to transport sand using trolleys, while drilling of the passage is being carried out slowly to avoid stress on the ancient monument.
A larger engineering operation is underway to access the inner sanctum, with a tunnel being cut at a height of around 80 feet on the western side of the temple.
The extracted material will be transported through pipelines and stored at a designated location on the north-western side of the temple complex.
Experts said laboratory analysis confirmed that the sand had historically supported the structure but could now pose risks due to weight and moisture accumulation.
The project follows nearly 22 years of planning and technical studies, including laser measurements, endoscopic imaging and sample testing.
