Garjia Temple platform still vulnerable; 2nd phase of reinforcement to resume soon
Chanchal Gola | Ramnagar
The iconic Garjia Devi Temple- situated on a large rock formation in the middle of the Kosi river- continues to face geotechnical risks despite the completion of the first phase of the reinforcement work. Following the recent stampede at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi Temple, local authorities have heightened vigil regarding the structural safety of the hummock platform for the shrine. To mitigate the risk, the temple committee has issued directives to restrict the number of devotees allowed to ascend the rock particularly during the peak of the monsoon season, given the rock’s fragility.
Officials said that the phase I of the safety reinforcement project had been completed in May, 2024. This phase included short grouting, wire jacketing and flood protection measures, they further said, adding that the second phase, set to begin after the monsoon, would involve an allocation of Rs 11.5 crore.
Speaking on the project, the executive engineer, Irrigation department, Amit Gupta stated that the upcoming phase would include RCC gladding and complete jacketing of the hilly terrain to strengthen the entire structure. “Load calculations and design assessments for the second phase have already been completed. The department expects the approval of the required fund shortly after the monsoon following which the work would commence,” he said. He further assured that the hillock platform would not cave in and remain stable for the remainder of this monsoon season.
Notably, the hillock had suffered damage during the 2010 floods. Further, deep cracks had been noticed in 2021, spiking concerns over the structural integrity of the shrine platform. Considering the safety of the devotees, the Irrigation department had submitted a proposal to the State government, leading to the completion of Phase I in May 2024.
During the Shardiya Navratri festival, the temple sees a daily influx of 5,000 to 10,000 devotees. This causes pressure on the narrow access staircase which consists of 72 steps. In cases of overcrowding which often happens during the festival, the temple authorities have to restrict entry and sometimes even bring down the idol of the goddess from the sanctum down at its base for public viewing.
The SDM, Pramod Kumar said that the low footfalls during the ongoing monsoon has provided them with a suitable window for starting the next phase of construction. “Work will resume immediately after the rains stop. If crowd levels surge unexpectedly, alternative arrangements will be put into place to ensure the devotees’ safety,” he assured.
