“There is no timeframe because of weather and everything will be closed in the next two weeks during winter and the work will resume next year only,” she said.
The ASI has to be sure that the foundation of the temple is not fragile before starting any heavy work.
“We don't know if the foundation is fragile as too much water has rushed there. We have to be sure that it is not fragile before we start any sort of heavy work. We have to wait for GSI report for that,” she said.
“ASI has to be very careful in this case. We can use only manual power there and that too with utmost care. The responsibility of removing the debris is on Uttrakhand government and we have advised that no machinery should be used and it should be done manually,” said the Minister.
When asked about the budget for restoration, she said that it will be allotted after submission of a proper report.
“Initial budget is of Rs 2 crore but rest will come after we give a proper report,” the Minister said.
Asked about the possibility of removing the boulder that saved the Kedarnath Temple on that fateful day, she said the rock will remain there.
“There is no doubt that the boulder saved the temple to a major extent. We want it to be there because removing it means blasting the rock which will have an adverse affect on the fragile condition of the temple. It would be better to leave it as it is,” she said.
