After Angkor Vat, ASI to restore 'Ta Prohm' temple in Cambodia

New Delhi, July 17 (UNI) After the successful completion of the Angkor Vat project in Cambodia, the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has been entrusted with the job of restoring the famous 12th century 'Prasat Ta Prohm' temple complex in that country.

The progress on this project was reviewed today by Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni and Cambodian Tourism Minister Lay Prohas during a luncheon meeting here today.

The restoration work of Ta Prohm Temple, which was built by King Jayavarman VII in the Angkor Region and ranks high amongst the most important monuments of that area, is considered a daunting task as about 150 huge trees are in the complex and some of these have grown over the structures. Roots have penetrated the foundation and dislodged the stones of walls, vaults and towers.

Considering the complex nature of conservation problems, the ASI carried out certain scientific studies and investigations related to soil mechanics, foundation, structural stability, hydrological, geo-technical and ground water aspects of the temple through experts in the respective disciplines.

In the monumental task, the ASI is being assisted by a number of specialised agencies.

The areas identified for reconstruction are: Eastern Corridor of Third Enclosure - Northern side; Southern Corridor of Third Enclosure - Eastern and Northern sides; Western Corridor of Third Enclosure - Southern and Northern sides; causeway connecting third and fourth enclosures on West; and partial reconstruction of Dancing Hall.

The two leaders also exchanged views on various aspects of promotion of bilateral tourism and cultural ties, which exist since ancient times. Cambodia also expressed its desire to have private investments from India, particularly in the field of tourism. Mr. Prohas underlined the need for having direct air connections between India and Cambodia. It is estimated that around 3000 tourists visit India every year while the number of Cambodians coming to India is around 600 per year.

The visiting minister also extended an invitation to Ms. Soni and senior officials of her ministry to visit Cambodia.

Mr Prohas is currently in India to promote his country's tourism as a reciprocal measure to similar efforts by the Indian government in Cambodia in October last year.

UNI/SKS SHB HT1840