Shiva Temple: Structural emergency at world’s tallest Shiva temple: Urgent repairs required |

Dehradun: Tungnaththe highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at an altitude of 3,680 meters, in UttarakhandRudraprayag district, faces serious structural challenges including water leakssubsidence and a weak foundation, all of which worsened during the monsoon season. The ongoing heavy rainfall has accelerated the damage, leading to concerns about the ancient temple’s stability and safety for visiting devotees and tourists. Locals believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas of Mahabharat after the Kurukshetra war.
In response, the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committeeled by Ajendra Ajay, contacted the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to explore possible restoration methods. Both organizations sent teams of experts to inspect the site in September. After assessing the condition, they offered their recommendations to the temple committee on steps to protect the temple from further damage.
“The temple is facing serious problems such as subsidence, loosening of the foundation and movement of wall slate, which have caused water leakage, especially during the rainy season,” Ajay said. The committee has also sought assistance from the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) to ensure the safety of the temple. Ajay said that once they get the CBRI’s suggestions, they will go ahead with full repair, restoration and beautification efforts.
Manoj Saxena, superintendent archaeologist at ASI, told TOI, “Though the temple is not officially protected by ASI, our team has visited the site and given our recommendations. It is now up to the temple committee and the state government to take necessary action. “
Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj also addressed the issue, saying, “Given the temple’s water leakage and structural problems, the government is prioritizing its repair to ensure that the structure remains safe for all visitors.” The restoration work is expected to move forward rapidly with the submission of the final CBRI report. Repair and beautification efforts will aim to preserve the temple’s historical and spiritual significance while ensuring that it remains structurally sound.