ASI demands curbing flights near Khajuraho temples

Bhopal, Nov 21: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has demanded that flying aircraft just over or near world-famous ancient temples in Khajuraho be curbed as it caused vibrations to these centrally-protected monuments.

In a letter written to the Indian Airport Authority, ASI (Bhopal circle) Superintendent K K Mohammed has warned strict action if the matter was not taken seriously.

He expressed fears certain pilots and the IA could push Khajuraho temples into the list of endangered heritage monuments like Hampi monuments of Karnataka.

The UNESCO had listed Hampi as an endangered structure following the decision to construct two bridges and road near the it. It was de-listed last year after construction was halted.

The UNESCO had listed Khajuraho in world heritage list in 1986.

However, cracks had emanated in these structures and their existence threatened due to airborne vibrations.

In the letter, Mr Mohammed had pointed out that vibrations caused during landing of the planes had badly-affected western group of temples especially 11th century 'Nandi' and 'Vishwanatha' temples -- located at Bameetha road with its wall being three km from runway.

Airborne vibrations had led several cracks in rocks of these temples and a study was being conducted. The ASI had conducted video-recording of flights near these structures in September. Some pilots take the aircraft as below as 200-250 metre to show temples to curious tourists causing more danger.

In a technical report released by New Delhi-based National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in 1998, it was apprehended that flights could cause cracks in the temples.

The report stated that acoustic vibrations affected structures of these temples and increase in number of flights could lead to permanent damage.

Mentioning the report, Mr Mohammed said the NPL had suggested that the ASI and the IA should work out a consensus and pilots must be strictly instructed to avoid flying their aircraft just over or near the temple. However, this had been regularly violated.

The report further stated that traffic density was bound to increase in coming years causing additional sources of structural excitation in and around the temple complex due to ground-borne vibration.

Heavy vehicles should not be allowed to ply near the temples and should diverted via the bypass road and these aspects while planning future expansion of existing airport.

UNI