Bengaluru: Heavy rains and floods have affected ancient monuments in Karnataka that come under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Aihole and Pattadakal in Bagalkote district, which are Unesco-recognised sites, were submerged making it difficult for ASI officials to even reach the affected spots.
However in Hampi, the structures have escaped the flood fury. ASI Hampi Circle officials told Deccan Chronicle on Tuesday, "All is well. There is no water around."
The Purandara Mantapa near Vittala Temple on the banks of the Tungabhadra, Kodandarama Temple, Hampi Salu Mantapa Markandeshwara Temple, Nava Brindavana Gadde and Jaina Mantapa were submerged after a heavy rainfall a few days ago, but it has cleared.
In Pattadakal, nine Hindu temples and a Jain Basti, all built by the Chalukyas, were inundated over the last weekend. ASI officials said that two cave temples and 12 temples were under the floodwaters at Aihole after water was released from the Naviluteertha dam.
Dharwad Circle ASI officials are trying to assess the damage caused by floods to the Pattadakal heritage site, but they have not been able to go near the structures. "A team is working hard to protect the heritage site. Preliminary reports said that the monuments look fine from a distance, but the real damage can be assessed only when we reach the site. There is water for a few hundred metres and up to 5 feet. We can formulate a strategy only after waters recede and our experts assess the damage, if any.
“The roads from Dharwad are just opening up and we hope to come up with a concrete plan soon," said Mr Anil Kumar A., Superintending Archaeologist and head of Dharwad Circle.
He said that if required, private players may also be roped in to handle the renovation work.
