Puri, Nov 16: The Archeological Survey of India, which had to undertake repair work on the walls of Natamandap of Shree Jagannath Temple from today as per the direction of the High Court, deferred the work in view of the heavy rush of devotees in the shrine. 

It may resume the work any time tomorrow and the day after tomorrow.

According to the information, the ASI has asked the SJTA to provide a time slot during which it will undertake repair work. The ASI was also scheduled to hold a meeting with the SJTA in this meeting later in the day. 

The High Court has directed the ASI to do the repair work for six hours every day and complete the entire work in 120 days. 

In view of the ongoing Kartika Month, devotees are visiting the shrine in large numbers. The devotees must not be disturbed to have Darshan of the deities during the repair work. 

Iron pipe supports will be erected from the Garuda stambha (Sacred pillar) to the Bhitar katha for repair work.  In this situation, a proper time should be given to the ASI so that devotees will not get disturbed, said an official. 

Amicus curiae NK Mohanty, ASI, Management Committee members, the Technical team and SJTA officers will discuss the issue. 

A standard operating procedure (OSP) is likely to be carved out for the purpose. 

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