ASI to undertake six phased conservation work at famous Ta Prohm Temple in Cambodia
Archaeological Survey of India will undertake a six phased conservation work spread over a span of 10 years from 2004 to 2014 with the estimated expenditure of US $ 5 million. This was announced by Shri Dhanendra Kumar, Secretary, Culture inaugurating the first round table about Ta Prohm Temple at Phnom Penh in Cambodia. The project envisages conservation of not only the stones and monument, but also of the age-old tree structures enveloping them and the surrounding environment, in a unique blending, in harmony with nature.
Shri Dhanendra Kumar disclosed that the restoration work of Ta Prohm Temple is being undertaken with the use of latest technological innovations like 3D laser scanning. A team from Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai has already conducted site visit at Phnom Penh to complete studies on soil mechanics and structural engineering analysis. The study of hydrology was also being taken up by a premier Organisation of India. The laser scanning and preparation of 3D documentation drawings were also being taken up for conservation work of the temple. The Secretary, Culture said with the commencement the conservation of the Temple a new chapter had been written in the bilateral cooperation of Cambodia and India. “It will be a matter of pride for the whole of mankind if these specimens of great artistic works are saved from further deterioration” he added.
Participants in the round table conference including the Governor of Siem Reap Province and the special Representative of Norodom Sihanouk, King of Cambodia and UNESCO experts appreciated the ASI proposals for the restoration and conservation of Ta Prohm temple. They also acclaimed the invaluable contribution by the ASI in the conservation of Angkor Wat Temple from 1986-93 during the difficult years of the civil war in Cambodia. On the occasion, Secretary, Culture also inaugurated the Photo Exhibition of Select Buddhist and Hindu Monuments of India.
During his two visits to Cambodia in 2002 in April and November, Shri Atal Bihar Vajpayee, Prime Minister had responded to the repeated requests of the Royal Government of Cambodia, for India’s further assistance in the restoration and conservation efforts at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. According, an agreement had been signed between India and Cambodia during PM’s visit in April 2002, for joint partnership for the conservation of Prasat Ta Prohm.
(Release ID :1049)