Encroachment proving hurdle for Bhojpur temple

Bhopal, Dec 21 (UNI) Encroachments are proving a major hurdle for the inclusion of the nearby Bhojpur village's incomplete Shiva temple, dating back to the 11th century, in the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation's World Heritage List.

The shrine, located 28 km from here in Raisen district, was built during the rule of Raja Bhoj and has one of the largest 'lingas' in the world. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has initiated the process of developing the site as a tourist spot and also including it in the World Heritage List.

This state's world-renowned tourist destination Khajuraho's temples found place on the List in 1986, Sanchi Stupa in 1989 and Bhimbetka 2003.

For the past few years, unauthorised construction took place in the prohibited area around the Bhojpur shrine. The ASI issued show cause notices to the encroachers and also wrote to the state government.

The letter said that the Bhojpur panchayat agreed to provide a plot 80 m from the monument's boundary for new houses. By expending Rs six to seven lakh, the state government would be able to rehabilitate encroachers.

In August, a fibreglass roof was constructed over the temple and a 12-tonne decorated stone pillar placed at the entrance.

The ASI urged the government to hand over to it Dhar district's Manju Pond and its surroundings, near Mandu's protected Jahaz Mahal, for beautification. The matter is pending since March.

UNI GB-AC VD DB1812